As crazy as it sounds, the transition from being childless to becoming a parent has given me time I didn’t have before.
“Welcomed By Our Daughter’s Birth Family”
I asked my family not to come to the hospital when she was born, then mourned their absence. Enter her birth relatives.
Family, Far and Near
Planning a trip to see second cousins or great aunts? Before you travel, help your child and relatives expand their conceptions of family.
“Older, Wiser, and Warming Bottles”
Adoptive parents pushing the mid-century mark are joining playgroups and diggingDora the Explorer. What’s age got to do with it?
Surprising Post-Adoption Emotions
When you finally bring your child home, yes, you will feel elated. But many new adoptive moms and dads are surprised by the complex emotions that can sit on the outskirts of that joy.
Avoiding Overwhelm During the Holidays
Most parents look forward to sharing this time of the year with their children. But less is often more when it comes to holiday activities.
Helping Your Teen Survive Cliques
Sometimes teens feel left out of the in crowd. Here’s how to help.
How to Explain Adoption to Family and Friends
The way you respond to questions like, “What is adoption?” can influence how a person understands adoptive families–and explains them to others. Use these ideas to correct misinformation and set a positive tone.
Announcing Your Decision to Adopt
A letter can deliver the news to loved ones in efficiently and affectionately. The key is to communicate how thrilled you are about adopting.
Answering Relatives’ Tricky Questions About Adoption
Adoptive parents are used to fielding questions about adoption — and most of us have an arsenal of replies to give the stranger in the checkout lane, but when it’s a family member making the rude remark, snappy comebacks don’t suffice.
The Reluctant Family
You’re ready to adopt, but your spouse is reluctant. How can you get your “other half” (and family members) on board?
“I Want the Same Hubbub That Surrounds Pregnancy!”
When I announced our adoption plans, I hoped for the same kind of excitement that pregnant women get. After all, the happiness we’re expecting is the same.
It’s All Relative!
Nothing brings out a tween’s awkward side like a holiday family gathering. What can you do to help?
Webinar Replay: Reluctant Partner or Relatives
View the replay of the “Reluctant Partner or Relatives” webinar. Brooke Randolph, LMHC, talks prospective parents through getting on the same page with loved ones about adoption plans.
Ask AF: Tweens and Teasing
My middle schoolers often get teased about the way they look or the fact that they were adopted. What can they say to the teasers?
“Here’s How You Can Support Us”
We may tell you that we are OK when we’re really falling apart. We’re worried that, if we are honest about how difficult parenting through the transition is, you won’t understand and that you’ll think we’re nuts.
Who Needs to Know Your Child’s Adoption Story?
Should I tell my child’s doctor she was adopted? What about her school?
Preparing for Your Child During the Wait
The very best way to occupy your time while you wait for your child is to learn everything you can about raising adopted children, and to prepare for any eventuality.
How and When to Share Your Adoption News
Our adoptive families recommend that you share your plans in stages. While adoptions take, on average, one year from the date your home study is accepted, you won’t be in control of the timing. And if yours drags on, the last thing you want is daily phone calls asking, “So … any news?”
“My So-Called Friends”
The other day, I mentioned to a coworker that my husband and I were looking into international adoption. You’d have thought I said we were thinking of becoming terrorists. “What do you mean, you’re going to adopt from Russia? What about all the kids in Milwaukee who need good homes?” she demanded indignantly.