This tip sheet provides essential advice for adoptive parents on how to talk to their children about adoption, especially when there is limited information about the child’s birth family. It emphasizes the importance of addressing feelings of loss and grief that adoptees may experience and offers strategies for discussing adoption at different developmental stages. Readers will learn how to handle questions about unknown birth family details, use creative methods to help children process their emotions, and maintain open and honest communication. The article also highlights the significance of preserving any available information and artifacts related to the child’s birth family to help them build a connection to their past.

Read this guide to gain valuable insights and practical tips for supporting your child through their adoption journey, even when information is scarce.

 

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Author: Wisconsin Family Connections Center
Additional Author: Coalition for Children, Youth & Families