Gift Ideas for a Birth Mother Giving Her Child Up for Adoption

Giving a child up for adoption can be very hard for a birth mother. Knowing that she is giving the child a loving home and providing a new baby for people who may not be able to conceive on their own can make the process much easier. Appropriate gifts to the birth mother emphasize the specialness of the sacrifice she is making or provide support and comfort.

Checking Legality of Gifts

There may be state laws in place to prevent the adopting parents from offering a gift to the birth mother before the adoption. Adoption laws vary from state to state. Some state laws prohibit any reimbursements or gifts before the adoption or limit the dollar amount of any gifts; usually, this amount is set at less than $50. Check your local state adoption laws or consult with an attorney for the specific limitations on adoption gifts that may exist in your state. If these laws are violated, a court may declare the adoption illegal and nullify it.

Adoption Themed

A birth mother may appreciate a special way to remember her child. There are many adoption-themed gifts that can help the mother feel connected to the child as time goes on. You can provide her with a locket or pendant that can have the baby's picture placed inside or a necklace with the baby's birthstone. Another idea is a bracelet or pendant with a matching item for the child to wear; this can provide a way for the mother to always feel a connection to the child.

Pampering

A birth mother giving up a child for adoption may naturally go through a period of remorse or mourning. She may feel out of control or depressed as a result. Look for ways to make the birth mother feel pampered and special. A day at the spa or a shopping trip may be a nice way for her to relax and feel like herself again. Look for ways for her to feel special and get away from life for a little while.

Support

Giving up a child for adoption can be very hard. First and foremost, the birth mother will need love and support to help her through the process. If you are the adopting parents, you might want to express your gratitude in a heartfelt letter. Letting her know how special what she has done for you is a great way for her to feel better about her decision. Family and friends might want to look for books about what she is going through. A book of stories about women in similar situations will help her feel less isolated and alone and can be a great way to provide support.

References

• "The Complete Adoption Book": Laura Beauvais-Godwin and Raymond W. Godwin, 2005