Preparing to adopt internationally is exciting, but it’s also complex. Thoughtful, intentional training isn’t just a box to check; it’s one of the most important investments you can make in your future child and your family. International adoption involves layers of culture, trauma, attachment, medical considerations, and transition. The training process is designed to help you enter this journey informed, prepared, and confident — not just for travel day, but for the lifelong parenting ahead.
Here’s a clear overview of Gladney’s required training for families pursuing international adoption (please note some countries have additional requirements not listed here):
Before Home Study Approval
• Minimum 12 hours of pre-adoptive training (15 hours for Colombia)
• Completion of Hague-required education topics
• Pathways Training at Gladney’s Fort Worth campus
This foundational phase ensures families understand the legal, ethical, developmental, and trauma-informed components of international adoption before approval.
2–3 Months Before Travel
• 3 Continuing Education hours per parent
OR 3 additional approved training courses per parent
• Required Gladney Live Trainings:
o My Child’s Journey to Adoption
o The Impact of Sexual Abuse in Childhood
o Once We Are Home: What to Expect
o How Your Attachment Style Affects Your Parenting
o Latin American Cultural Awareness (Latin America programs only)
This stage focuses on practical readiness — helping parents prepare emotionally and strategically for travel, transition, and the first weeks home.
After Match (Child-Specific Preparation)
• Child-Specific Training
• Child-Specific Understanding & Preparation Tool
• Clinical review + counseling call
Once you are matched, preparation becomes personal. This training equips you to understand your specific child’s history, needs, strengths, and potential challenges — so you can parent from a place of insight and compassion from day one.
How Training Is Completed
Training is completed through:
• Web based curriculum
• Gladney live webinars
• In-person Pathways training
• Continuing education modules
• Child-specific resources
Adoption is not just a moment — it’s a lifelong journey of learning, attachment, healing, and growth. The training process is intentionally comprehensive because your child deserves parents who are prepared, informed, and equipped to meet their needs.
We’re here to walk alongside you — every training, every milestone, every step of the way.
If you're ready to take the first step towards adoption, fill out out our Prospective Adoptive Parent form to get started.