Adoption can be an exciting, life-changing time for individuals and couples. And in this post, a variety of tips and tricks for adjusting to life after adoption are discussed.
Tips for Post-Adoption Success
Find an Adoption Mentor – Learning how to parent is a challenge. Even parents who have raised children already face new struggles and situations when it comes to adoption. Luckily, when it comes to adjusting to life after adoption, someone else may understand. Parents who have experience raising adopted children can be a valuable resource for new parents, and may act as role models and mentors to those going through the process for the first time. Many adoptive parents find great help in parent support groups and other services. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers a National Foster Care & Adoption Directory of resources to help in your area.
Establish Routines and Traditions – Adopted children may find it difficult to adjust to a new family setting. Kids thrive on stability. Parents can help their adopted children adjust by creating routines and rituals. These routines may be as simple as bedtime reading or family movie nights. In addition, adopting parents can help establish traditions by commemorating important occasions, such as the child’s placement or finalization.
Create a Family Culture – Transracial or transcultural families may find it particularly helpful to develop a family identity that makes everyone feel included. Adoptive parents can be cognizant of this goal and choose activities, schools, and friends that reflect the value they place on the diversity of all family members.
Prepare for Questions about Adoption – Questions from outsiders about your adoption are almost inevitable, particularly for more “obvious” adoptive families. Such questions can come from relatives, friends, or even strangers, and may catch you or your children off guard. Although such questions are usually well intentioned, answering these questions can be challenging. Try to think of the types of questions you are likely to face. Determine how you will respond to such questions, how much of your and your child’s story you will share, and how you can educate people about adoption and the adoption process.
If Needed, Seek Therapy – A therapist, social worker, or other professional can be a tremendous resource when adjusting to a new family dynamic. In such an instance, it is important to find a professional who has experience with adoption issues, as well as a good sense of your family needs and dynamics. Often your adoption agency can be good source of help and referral.
Rely on the Aid of a Trained Illinois Attorney – At its heart, adoption is a legal change of status between you and your adoptive child. If you need help completing the adoption, or find that your adoption is being legally challenged or contested, seek the help of a highly trained adoption attorney.
Seek Legal Help
For support on these matters throughout northern Illinois, including DuPage, Kane, Cook, or other local counties, the family law attorneys at Sullivan Taylor & Gumina, P.C. are here to help. Please contact us today to learn how we can work on your behalf.
