RAD

RAD (or Reactive Attachment Disorder) is pretty common with toddler age kids who've done a stint in an orphanage. We've begun to see some small signs of it in our younger boy, Alex. Now, no need to worry, we were expecting this.

The last few days, we've noticed that Alex tends to horde the food we give him. He usually spends the 2 hours with us with both hands full of apples or crackers, and continues to ask for more. He also won't let us touch the food once we give it to him. Now, this is not because he's not being fed enough - the orphanage does a great job of feeding him - instead, it has more to do with a deep insecurity about being provided for. He also is overly-independent, and has trouble maintaining contact with Mom and Dad (unless it's playful). Now, this may sound like a normal 4 year old, but it's heightened with Alex. Both of these indicators are just a few examples of the trust issues he has, and something we will have to overcome over the years.

We've started to do a few small things while we are here to help. We 'try' to make Alex sit on our lap when he eats. He usually squirms the whole time. We did have a break-through today - Alex shared his snack with Dad - a first!!!

So please keep Alex in your prayers. Pray that he continues to attach to his new Mom and Dad in a healthy way, and that we continue to provide an environment where he can begin to trust us.