Many children adopted or fostered from institutions suffer from delayed development, according to the organisers of two conferences to be held at St Patrick's College, Maynooth.
Neglect, poverty and lack of stimulation contribute to the delayed development, says the Parent Network for the Post-Institutionalised Child.
However, "with appropriate stimulation and intervention, many improve significantly while in placement or adoptive homes".
International experts will address the conferences on 22nd May, one for parents, the other for professionals. PNPIC Ireland can be contacted at 018411530.