In working with adoptive families and from my experience as part of an adoptive family through international adoption, I know firsthand that one of the hardest elements is the WAIT. By wait I mean the time the entire process can take, from starting the process to your child’s homecoming. It is statistically under 2 years for most…on the outset of starting an adoption for most families this seems like an eternity…and I do mean an eternity. The worst part about the wait is…when you’re in it! I try to give families HOPE:

H (HELP)
At times there are no words to make a waiting parent feel better but support can help. If you know someone who is adopting a child, ask them what can you do to help. Paint the nursery? Offer some no-longer-needed baby supplies? How about a lunch date followed by some therapeutic shopping to help distract them?!
O (ORGANIZE)
If you are a waiting parent, take this time to organize. It goes without saying that once you have a child in your life there are some things –okay a lot of things- that go by the wayside. Such as an organized kitchen drawer, filling cabinet, and garage! Make a list and get to it.
P (PURPOSE)
The Wait can have PURPOSE. As with any expectant parents, there is a need to prepare for this wonderful, life-changing event! Adoption is about more than "getting your baby" but it is easy to lose sight of this in the wait. Take this time to do some reading about adoption issues, research your child’s culture, if appropriate, and simply learn about child development.
E (ENCOURAGE)
If you are a waiting parent keep thinking positive thoughts. Picture yourself as parents (be it the first time or adding another child) and re-think this in your mind. If you know a waiting parent, ask them (but not too often) how they are doing. Let them know you remember they are waiting and are excited too!