How to Talk About Placing Their Sibling
Choosing Adoption: A Loving Choice for Your Family
Caring for children can be overwhelming. Facing an unexpected pregnancy while caring for children can be overwhelming. This is occurring more and more frequently. More and more women recognize adoption might be a valid loving option.
Considering adoption for your baby is not about “giving up a baby for adoption”—it’s about giving your child the best possible opportunities. Adoption is a selfless act of love. The women we see considering adoption show incredible strength and thoughtfulness for their entire family.
Adoption might be the best decision for everyone involved: you, the children you’re raising, and the child you place for adoption.
You’re Not Alone
Women who are parenting but are considering adoption for a new child are becoming increasingly common. Here’s what the numbers show:
- 1 in 4 women who choose adoption are already parenting at least one child.
- Research shows that open and semi-open adoptions reduce feelings of loss and confusion for both birth mothers and their children.
- Siblings raised in different homes but in open adoptions often build meaningful relationships through shared photos, messages, and even visits, reassuring everyone involved.
Adoption is giving up; it’s creating bonds and guaranteeing love surrounds your family in every way possible.
Explaining Adoption to Older Children
Your child will have questions. That’s normal.
- Keep explanations simple and age-appropriate. Use terms they’ll understand, like, “We’re finding a family to love and care for the baby because that’s what’s best for everyone right now.”
- Emphasize love and connection. Reassure them that their sibling is still part of the family, just growing up with another loving family.
- Answer questions honestly. Your older children will probably ask questions such as:
“Will I see the baby again?”
Answer: Use simple, loving language. Let them know the baby’s new family will provide the best possible care, but they’ll still have the chance to stay connected.
“Is the baby going to know my name?”
Answer: As a family, we will remember the baby’s birthday and we will send pictures of you on your birthday and other special occasions.
“Why can’t we keep the baby?”
Answer: We love this baby, but right now, we are not able to give this little person everything they need to grow up.
How Open Adoption Can Help
Open adoption or semi-open adoption minimizes trauma and builds bridges between families. With tools like Heart Connect, you can:
- Share updates easily: Send and receive photos, videos, and messages.
- Stay connected privately: Heart Connect is secure and accessible on any electronic device.
- Encourage and support sibling bonds: Allow children to communicate and see each other grow.
As a Birth Mother, You Might Ask:
Q: Will my placed child feel left out knowing they have siblings?
A: Open adoption helps ensure they feel loved and included by allowing them to know and interact with their siblings. Sharing updates and maintaining contact shows that love is always present.
Q: How does Heart Connect work?
A: Heart Connect is a secure, easy-to-use app where families can share photos, videos, and messages. It’s designed to help birth families and adoptive families stay connected in a way that works for everyone.
You Are Never Alone
Making the choice to place your baby for adoption while raising other children is a powerful act of love and courage. At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Through open adoption, tools like Heart Connect, and compassionate guidance, you can ensure your family’s journey is filled with love and connection.
Reach out today to learn more about how we can help you navigate this unique and loving path.