A model for caregiving of adopted children after institutionalization.

Topic: Optimizing caregiving for newly adopted postinstitutionalized children.

Purpose: To consider a template of care for postinstitutionalized children based on experiences that physiological measures suggest are expected by infants postbirth.

Sources: Published literature and clinical experience.

Conclusion: Based on an understanding of physiologically expected care postbirth, special care for postinstitutionalized adopted children might include: close physical contact via use of a sling and cosleeping; breastfeeding or nurturing through food; and responsive caregiving. In replicating earlier missed experiences, parents may assist emotional development in their child and promote attachment development.