Having a little experience with toddlers. When our foster girls came to live with us. Brooke was 18 months old and Madison was almost 3 months. It was wonderful. I loved that Brooke was old enough to play and interact with us. There were difficult times, but mostly it was a wonderful experience. There were plenty of firsts with her too. Not the ones you get with a newborn, but really exciting firsts. First jump in a pool, first ride down a slide, first carousel ride. These are all precious times and moments. We bonded with girls and we are still in love and miss them everyday. It was a time we would never trade. I am so excited for the families involved. We would definetely be open to a toddler when we are ready for Jonah to have a sibling.
Even though the toddler has had experiences out of our control and molded by another, they do respond to love, caring and the things that you can offer them ( not material but values and a sense of self). They are not lost nor are they unable to bond, love and adapt. Children are amazing and just want what we all want.
Our love and prayers go out to everyone, especially the precious children involved in difficult situations like this one
I hope that this post has made some sense. I am just rambling
Love
Jenn