Navigating Without a Compass: Tools to Survive the Challenges of an Adopted Child with Special Needs

Soon after 5-year-old Tyler was settled into his new foster-to-adopt home, his new parents realized they were unprepared to handle his extremely disruptive behavior. His intellectual disability, coupled with severe tantrums, hoarding, stealing, and fascination with fire overwhelmed them. In spite of being given some preliminary information about Tyler from the case manager, they had no idea how difficult it was going to be until he moved in. Tyler was a master manipulator, a survival skill he learned early, and he trusted no one. After his adoption, all the support services from the foster care system were suddenly stopped, leaving them feeling abandoned and isolated. Told through the hearts of Tyler’s adoptive mother and grandmother, this memoir follows their 13-year journey of parenting this complicated child. The book is organized into easy-to-read sections and designed to give other parents quick access to tips and tools on safety, resources, financial assistance, and creating a support network.