February 08, 2016

Adoption News Roundup

Hello! Happy Tuesday!

We’re deep in the middle of winter now, and thankful that Valentine’s Day is bringing a little bit of light (and okay, stress. Valentine’s Day cards and candy don’t take care of themselves.) Truly though, it’s a holiday that’s always meant far more to us than just something couples celebrate. It’s about celebrating the relationships with have with our children, our children’s birth mothers, our friends, co-workers, family members, and anyone who has made an impact on our lives. Love comes in so many forms, and we’re happy to celebrate that.

Here’s a look at what we’ve been reading lately. Lots of great articles out there now!

How much do you know about the adoption home study? Take this quiz to find out!

Hey, did someone just tell you they’re adopting? Don’t ever say these things. Beginning with, “Just wait, now you’ll get pregnant!”

Talking thoughtfully with your children about adoption can be challenging sometimes, depending on the the emotions and questions that arise. This article shares some great thoughts on why language matters. “If the person is an adoptee or a birth parent, I feel it is their prerogative to use whatever wording they want. The most challenging people are those not personally connected to adoption who simply don’t know what they are saying. I choose to let some things go, but sometimes I gently explain that words are powerful in regards to adoption just as they are regarding race and religion and other matters.”

Our hearts are melting over this sweet six year-old who is selling paintings to help fund her godparent’s adoption. Bless her!

“Do I love my adopted child as much as birth parents love their kids?” “Parenting is not biology or blood work, just as it’s not process of acquisition or paperwork; parenting is practice, the love you give, and the life you make. What my daughter and my friend’s daughters have in common is this: they’re all loved ferociously by parents whose feelings are beyond compare.”

As adoptive parents, we are responsible for helping to craft and tell our child’s adoption story, and that process begins as early as possible. These real-life parents share how they’ve talked about their child’s adoption with them, navigating tricky questions while keeping things honest.

So many fun Valentine’s Day crafts for the kiddos!