How To Help Your Adopted Child Struggling With Greif No matter their age at adoption, it is common for an adopted child to go through some negative emotions about being adopted at some point in his or her life. It is also common for adopted children to feel confused or a sense of abandonment by their birth mother and father. Adoptive parents and families have an important responsibility to help their adopted child realize that being adopted is nothing to feel badly about and to help support them in their journey to acceptance of their new life. Know Their History Understanding the background of the adoptee is essential in addressing them and their potential troubles. If they are old enough to have been through foster care or multiple adoption homes, they may harness a sincere sense of rejection by their birth family or foster parents. However, through the care and attention of the adoptive couple or family, recovery and strengthening of the adoptee can
come to fruition with time. The important thing to remember is that if the adoptee is struggling emotionally that the problem be addressed immediately. Though time may heal all wounds, with an adopted child attention, understanding, and proper care are key towards a successful relationship and life with their adoptive family. Help from the Pros: Post Adoption Services While giving your child support and love are the most important and vital means to helping them through their grief, there are also many resources available from most adoption agencies. Often adoption agencies offer post adoption services, which may include counseling. Having someone to talk to about their feelings and unique family may help your child feel less confused or isolated. Adoption agencies may also host adoption events in which adoptive families can come together, meet other adoptive families and share stories of adoption. Having other friends who are adopted can also provide comfort for your adopted son or daughter. Post adoption services can also include providing birth family records and medical history. Sometimes children or parents will not want to have the birth mother or father involved in their adopted child’s life initially. However, circumstances change and it may be important to get in touch with or meet the birth parents later. Adoption agencies can keep these records on file, so adopted children can meet their birth parents whenever they are ready, even years later. Above all else, it is the adoptive parents’ duty to help their adopted son or daughter feel loved and welcome in their home. Though they may go through some difficult times, having a loving support network to help them through will make all the difference. Adopting a child is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Are you contemplating adoption, or are you already planning to adopt a child? Do you have any idea about how or where to start? Providence Place will guide you through the adoption process while making sure all your questions are answered. Contact us today to learn more about adoption.