How to Support Someone Who Just Adopted

The adoption experience is an amazing one but it can also be overwhelming, just like the birth of a baby or any other big life event. If your friend or relative has just adopted, they probably will need some support from those around them. Follow the tips below to provide the type of support and encouragement that new adoptive families really need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Offer your congratulations. Send a card, make a phone call or arrange a time to come visit. Adoptive parents report that often their adoption isn’t celebrated the way that the birth of a child would be. They want to share their joy with their friends and family just like any other parent would.

2. Bring a meal. Even though adoptive parents haven’t gone through the physical experience of giving birth to a baby, they have definitely been on the same emotional roller coaster and that still takes a physical toll. Having someone bring a meal takes the pressure off and gives them one less detail to worry about.

3. Give a gift. Even if it is something small and simple, bringing a present shows that you are excited about the adoption and that you support the adoptive family.

4. Volunteer your help. Offer to wash dishes, fold a basket of laundry or run some errands. he adoptive parents will probably be wrapped up in taking care of the baby and often the house work can slip a little. If you spend thirty minutes helping with some basic chores, they will probably be thrilled.

5. Throw a shower. As mentioned in step 1, adoptions are often not celebrated like the birth of a baby, though they really should be. The offer to have a shower, even after the child is already home, is a great way to support the family.

6. Provide a listening ear. Every new parent gets overwhelmed sometimes and that is still true for adoptive parents. Add to that the special challenges and emotions that come with adoption, and it’s a lot to deal with. Be available to talk by phone or to drop by for a cup of coffee. Listen and encourage. This can be the best type of support of all.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that people don't always adopt babies. Families who have added toddlers or older children to their families have very similar needs for support as those who have added babies.

[kgob]

on 5/27/2009 Supportive and non-intrusive ways to be there for a new adoptive family.

[S56Pell]

on 2/28/2009 Support is HUGE. I am always there for anyone, family or friends that have recently adopted or thinking about it. I feel sharing my experience and views can help another who was just like me. LoST! I did the adoption process on my own, along with my hubby. We did things blindly and love helping others make it easier.Sandyhttp://www.rapidadoption.com/free_adoption_booklet.html