Main Office: 301-664-9664
24/7 Pregnancy Hotline: 1-888-731-6601
PWNL After Hours Crisis Hotline: 1-888-955-3339

Youtube Instagram Linkedin Facebook
Donate
Apply

National Training Development Curriculum (NTDC)

Start Your Adoption Journey with Confidence

Pre-Adoption Training for Prospective Families

Whether you’re considering adoption through the U.S. foster care system, international adoption, or private domestic infant adoption, one thing remains true: education is essential.

At Barker, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our required National Training and Development Curriculum (NTDC) prepares individuals and couples to adopt with knowledge, empathy, and confidence.

View Pre-Adoption Trainings (NTDC)

What Is NTDC?

NTDC is a nationally recognized, evidence-based training program designed to prepare prospective adoptive parents. It’s a required first step for anyone interested in adopting through Barker.

During the training, you’ll explore:

  • Core adoption concepts and parenting approaches
  • The impact of trauma, loss, and separation on children
  • Practical skills to support children from a range of backgrounds

This course is led by seasoned professionals and experienced adoptive parents who understand the journey—and are here to support you.

How It Works

To receive your certificate of completion, families must attend:

  • Attendees have to:
    • Attend three virtual sessions
    • One additional virtual breakout tailored to your adoption type (domestic, international, or older child).
  • One program-specific breakout session, scheduled separately based on the type of adoption you are pursuing:
    • Domestic Infant
    • International
    • Older Children from Foster Care

This ensures that you receive tailored guidance that meets your family’s needs.

Who Can Apply?

We welcome adoption applications from:

  • Individuals and couples
  • People of all ages, races, religions, and ethnic backgrounds
  • Members of the LGBTQ+ community, including all gender expressions and identities

Barker is a nonprofit adoption agency with offices in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.. We serve families nationwide, while always respecting the adoption laws of your home state or the country you may be adopting from.

Why Pre-Adoption Training Matters

This is more than a requirement. It’s your chance to:

  • Learn what to expect
  • Build a strong foundation for your family
  • Join a supportive community of other prospective adoptive parents
  • Prepare to meet the emotional and developmental needs of your future child

“This training gave us the tools—and the heart—we needed to move forward with confidence.”

— Barker Adoptive Parent

National Training Development Curriculum (NTDC) at Barker

Upcoming Pre Adoption Trainings

Events

Today