4 Tips for an Easy Adoption Transition

Adopting a child is a long and stressful process, but for many parents, the struggle is worth it to help a child and bring a child into their lives. Once the paperwork is done, however, there is still the long process of transitioning the child into your family and home. If you are in the process of adopting a child, check out these four tips to create an easy transition.

1. Keep Information About the Child's Birth Parents

Regardless of why the child is not with their birth parents, keep information about them. This is important because you may be able to use the information for future complications, such as mental or physical health concerns. For example, if your child seems to have a genetic disorder, you won't be surprised if you know it runs in the family.

Another reason to keep information is because the child may eventually want to know about their birth parents. If you have information and photos you can show them, this will go a long way to help you form a healthy relationship.

2. Learn About the Child's History

Besides knowing about the parents, you need to know everything about the child's past. Learn about what types of things they liked to do in their old home, such as playing sports, reading, or watching certain shows. This gives you information on what they like to do, but it will also help the child adjust if they can continue doing what they always did.

You will also learn about potential behavior problems when you learn about the child’s history. For example, if your adopted child is timid, it may because of how they were treated in the past by their adoptive parents or others. A knowledge of your child’s past will assist you to help them come out of their shell.

3. Be Honest About the Adoption

If you're adopting an older kid, they will know you aren't their birth parent, but you should still be open and honest about the entire process so they understand what steps were taken for them to become your child. Again, this is just a good way to help build trust and bond with your adopted child.

If the child was a baby when you adopted them, they may think you are their birth parents. However, you should be open when your child gets older (and can understand) that they are adopted. If you hide it from them, and they find out on their own, it may put a strain on your relationship.

4. Make Them Feel Like They're Home

Finally, once they are home, make them feel like it is actually home. Learning the child's past interests will help, but there are a lot of other things you can do to make them feel welcome and included. First, include them in family activities immediately, and put them on a set schedule. If you have other children, make sure the adopted child has the same schedule.

Another way to help them feel like they are at home is to spend lots of time with your new child. This helps with bonding, especially if the child is young. Young children are usually almost always with their parents. Even if your child is older, however, you should take time to spend with them. This is crucial for creating that bond and love.

Adoption can be rewarding, but it is a difficult process. One of the best things you can do is to help your adopted child transition into your new home. For more information about adoption, contact us at the Law Offices of Jamie L. Hazlett & Associates.