Adoption Q & A # 2

I want to adopt a child but I want to know how to tell my family (parents and in-laws) and bring them along in my journey of adoption?

First and foremost, I sense a tinge of fear in the tone of your voice. As long as you see the concept of adoption as something to be afraid of, then it is going to scare you. Look at adoption as an alternative way to expand a family.

Make sure that your spouse is agreeing with you on adoption first. Once that is taken care of, understand your families concerns about adoption and address them to an extent that you see as adequate and appropriate. Indian families seem to resist adoption for not knowing what to expect and it is done in your own best interest most of the time. Give them adequate time to understand your position. At some point in time, you’ll have to make a decision to move on because you’ll have to live with the decision for the rest of your life. It is very important to have your family support if you’re living in a joint family.

If you have older children at home, make sure to inform and include them in your decision.