Kay Holler, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will explore the stages of a child’s development, and what he/she is thinking about in terms of adoption at each stage. She will also discuss how to talk about adoption with your child and the importance of offering emotional support. Kay has been working in the adoption field for […]

Adult Adoptee Panel Discussion: Adoptees Share Their Experiences What does adoption look like through the lens of someone who was adopted?  How does someone who was adopted suggest talking to children about adoption?  This class is conducted with a panel of adults who were adopted as children.  The panelists discuss their lives, the history of […]

Many families either have adopted a child or are considering adopting a child of another race, culture, and/or ethnicity. When taking into account the role of race in our society, this invariably raises questions and concerns. Many adoptive families begin this journey without the benefit of having had an opportunity to hear individuals (adult adoptees […]

This is a moderated panel discussion.  The panel is comprised of birth parents that have placed children for adoption.  Panelists will discuss their personal experience with adoption and address topics that they consider important and that are raised by the moderator.  Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions.  They will be asked to […]

Recent research in neuroscience has confirmed what many clinicians have long known: Early relationships between caregivers and infants/young children matter and have lifelong implications for children. In order to help each child reach their potential, supportive and caring relationships are essential. This lecture will address the process of creating lasting attachments with adoptive children, some […]

This textured hair care presentation provides an overview of basic hair care, types, textures, and skincare.  This class will also cover an overview of protective styles, product recommendations and an introduction to individual braiding, plus Q&A with S4K stylist.  Only 10 spots available for this class.   REGISTRATION:  To register for this class, please email […]

REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE ONLY IF YOU HAVE TAKEN LEVEL 1 Step-by-step, hands-on instruction on how to do up to three simple hairstyles; ponytails, twists, basic underhand braiding; plus Q&A with S4K stylist.  Parents use their own recommended tools.  A list can be provided. (Supply kits can be purchased at an additional cost)  Parents practice […]

Activism in Adoption Series 2024 - On Your Feet Foundation is partnering with The Book Stall to bring Sara Easterly,  Lori Holden, and Kelsey Vander Vliet Ranyard, authors of Adoption Unfiltered: Revelations from Adoptees, Birthparents, Adoptive Parents and Allies in to their venue to do a panel discussion about their book.   Attendees who request adoption education credit will receive certificates […]

NEW CLASS ALERT -  Approximately 80 percent of all couples who become adoptive parents struggled with infertility. Infertility can feel like a betrayal of our bodies. Disappointment, loss, and shame are common experiences for those experiencing infertility. Infertility is a loss and one that needs to be adequately grieved. It’s a life experience that feels […]

Activism in Adoption Series 2024 - On Your Feet Foundation will present via zoom Gretchen Sisson, PhD, a sociologist who studies abortion and adoption in the United States and author of the upcoming book, RELINQUISHED: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood, being released in February 2024. Attendees who request adoption education credit will […]

Join Becky O'Connell, one of our temporary care providers, and learn the "baby basics".  Becky will discuss "The Big Three" (You will learn what they are!) and include suggestions and demonstrations to help you understand, enjoy, soothe and stimulate your baby.  This class is suitable for waiting families, those with infants under one year, and […]

Attorney Genie Miller Gillespie will discuss the steps that prospective adoptive parents should take to achieve a safe and legal adoption. Discussion will focus on the legal issues in adoption, which include proper preparation, termination of parental rights, limiting legal risk, applicable Illinois and federal law, the process of doing an Illinois adoption, and the […]

Recent research in neuroscience has confirmed what many clinicians have long known: Early relationships between caregivers and infants/young children matter and have lifelong implications for children. In order to help each child reach their potential, supportive and caring relationships are essential. This lecture will address the process of creating lasting attachments with adoptive children, some […]

Join Becky O'Connell, one of our temporary care providers, and learn the "baby basics".  Becky will discuss "The Big Three" (You will learn what they are!) and include suggestions and demonstrations to help you understand, enjoy, soothe and stimulate your baby.  This class is suitable for waiting families, those with infants under one year, and […]

Attorney Genie Miller Gillespie will discuss the steps that prospective adoptive parents should take to achieve a safe and legal adoption. Discussion will focus on the legal issues in adoption, which include proper preparation, termination of parental rights, limiting legal risk, applicable Illinois and federal law, the process of doing an Illinois adoption, and the […]

Recent research in neuroscience has confirmed what many clinicians have long known: Early relationships between caregivers and infants/young children matter and have lifelong implications for children. In order to help each child reach their potential, supportive and caring relationships are essential. This lecture will address the process of creating lasting attachments with adoptive children, some […]