A couple from my church adopted a 16 year old girl from Africa. There were a LOT of adjustments. After being here for about 2 years now, life is getting easier. Family life adjusted faster than school life. Because there are a lot of Sumalian refugees here, she was put in a class with these refugees. Most of them had no education before coming here, and, unfortunately, were looked down on by much of the American student body. A lot of bullying went on against this group. It got to a point that this young gal refused to go to school as she was grouped in with the refugee students, even tho' she had a very good education before coming here. The school would not transfer her into the mainstream school body!!! She has transferred to a different school and doing fine now.
I would think there would be much less adjustment for a younger child, as that age group generally seems to be much more accepting of differences.
If this is what you are meant to do, the way will be opened for you. Please keep us updated!!!!
Patti