“I’m so excited to be moving forward in the adoption process, but, when I share that news, I’ve been surprised and frankly dismayed at some of the reactions I’ve gotten. These range from dismissive to fearful and discouraging.”
When Relatives Hold Dated Views About Adoption
“I need help dealing with unsupportive relatives who seem to think ‘adoption’ is a dirty word. How can I talk with them about adoption?”
Adopting a Baby: The Truth About Domestic Infant Adoption
Adopting a baby in the United States has changed dramatically in the last 30 years. When will popular perceptions catch up with the new, healthier reality? Here, an adoptive mother dispels common myths about adopting a newborn.
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.
The Reluctant Spouse
Don’t be surprised if your mate resists adoption even as you are embracing it.
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.
“Journey Towards Love: Mimi and her Grandfather”
For months a mother tried to convince her dad that he could be a grandparent to the little girl she was bringing home. It took the child considerably less time to bring him around.
Relating to Relatives
There’s much parents can do to help their teens feel they belong within the larger family network.
“I Needed This All Along”
Five years on: We have been “trying” for three years, and now are deep into the medical crapshoot of infertility treatment. Soon it becomes clear that we will never have our own biological children.
“Redefining Perfect”
After giving birth to a boy and a girl, I had what other people defined as a “million dollar family.” A few years later, family and friends questioned our decision to adopt two older children, out of birth order, when we had the “perfect” family.
Winning Over the Grandparents-To-Be
Even the most eager grandparents-to-be need time to work through concerns about adoption.
Their Questions About Adoption, Our Answers
Short answers to questions people ask about adoption, plus the straight facts, if you want to educate.
“We’re Adopting!” How to Announce Your Decision to Friends and Family
Adoptive Families readers share the when, what, and how of announcing their decision to grow their families.
Getting the Grandparents on Board
Their grandparents’ love secures our children a place in the family. Here’s how to teach the older generation about adoption.
Helping Family Understand Open Adoption
Your family — especially older relatives — may not get why you are choosing an open adoption. Adoption expert Kathleen Silber gives advice on what to say.
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