How to Help an Adopted Child Adjust

Raising an adopted child is a rewarding opportunity. If you adopt an infant or toddler, you can wait a little while before explaining about the adoption. But if a child is old enough to know, helping them adjust to new surroundings is your job as a parent. Follow a few steps to form a solid, trusting relationship with your adopted child.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Prepare your home for the arrival of your adopted child. Have the child's room decorated, and lay things out, such as clothing or bedding. Or, set a plate of cookies or brownies on the kitchen table for both you and your child to enjoy. These gestures will make your home inviting.
2. Create a Welcome Book explaining who is who in your family: Mom, Dad, Brother, Sister and even Toto the Dog. Label each picture you take, such as "Your Room" or "Our House."
3. Make yourself available to your adopted child as much as possible. Reassure the child you will support and comfort them. Talk about the past, but do not force the child to share her experiences. Rather, explain that are always ready and available to listen.
4. Ask your child what activities he would prefer to do with the family. This can be an opportunity for both your family and your new child to become comfortable with each other.

Tips & Warnings

• If your older adopted child is defensive or avoids any communication or contact with you and your family, do not take it personally. Give your child time to adapt to her new surroundings.
• If you adopted your child as an infant or toddler, decide when or if you are going to tell him that he is adopted. If you have other children, decide if you are going to tell them their new sibling is adopted. However, telling your children their new sibling is adopted may impact the way they act toward their new brother or sister.