Your adopted child is an integral part of the family, but they will eventually find out that you aren’t their biological parents. Learning about their origins from you will help them shape a positive understanding of their background and experience. Below are a few tips from adoption law attorneys about telling them of their adoption.

3 Tips for Informing Your Child They’re Adopted

1. Have the Conversation Early

Letting your child know that they’re adopted as early as possible will help them develop a healthy relationship with their origins. While the conversation may seem daunting and uncomfortable, putting it off risks them finding out from another family member, leaving your child feeling confused and deceived.

2. Avoid Negatives About Birth Parents

No matter what circumstances your adopted child came from, stay positive when telling them the story of their adoption. Some parents think telling their child they came from abusive or neglectful conditions will help positively frame the adoption, but many kids have the opposite reaction. As they grow up, your child will surely have more questions, allowing you to reveal the details over time.

3. Give Reassurance

After being told that they’re adopted, your child might be confused, upset, angry, or indifferent at first. No matter their reaction, reassure them that being adopted doesn’t mean they’re loved less than any other child. Be patient, calm, and compassionate, and be prepared to answer the same questions multiple times.

If you’re hoping to bring a child into your home, the adoption law attorneys at Rathjen-Decker Law, LLC, will guide you through the complicated process and handle the details for you. With nearly 25 years of legal experience and an in-depth understanding of state and federal adoption law, they’ve helped families throughout the St. Louis, MO, area achieve their dream. Follow their Facebook for more legal tips, and visit their website or call (314) 727-6933 to learn more about their adoption law services and schedule a consultation.