The path to adopt a baby is different for every family, and none of those paths are straight and easy. Adopting a baby is an incredible moment for any family, but the process leading up to that moment you hold your new baby is always long and difficult. You’ll ride an emotional roller coaster, so it’s important to work with an agency that’s experienced enough to know how important it is to support you every step of the way.
We know that waiting is hard… and when unforeseen issues cause delays, it’s frustrating. We wanted to write this post and share these six tips to help you prepare for your journey to adoption.
1. Do your research
It’s incredibly important that you research your options and choose the right adoption agency to work with. You need someone in your corner who you can trust, and who’ll be your advocate throughout the process. Having an agency that can help you through each step will make the process infinitely easier.
2. Set an emotional foundation
If you understand that the process isn’t easy and might take a while, you’ll be better prepared for anything that might happen. It’s also important to be 100% sure you’re ready to adopt, and to think about the amazing life you’ll give to your new child. With the right emotional preparation, the wait will be much more bearable.
3. Find support
It’s important to talk to others who are going through the same process, or who have adopted in the past. Your adoption agency should be able to connect you with other adoptive families and support groups, and Facebook can be a wonderful place to find support. Hearing about the process from others who have gone through it before you can really help settle your nerves and make the wait easier.
4. Have patience
Stick to your guns – things always happen as they should, according to God’s plan. Even if something that feels perfect falls through, stay the course. When you finally hold your baby in your arms, you’ll know that you were meant to be a part to that child – and the wait will be completely worth it.
5. Be authentic with the birth family
When you’re meeting potential birth families, don’t try to impress them. Be yourself! In many cases, you’ll have a lifelong bond and friendship with the birth parents, so it’s important to let them see who you really are. Remember, it’s a difficult process for everyone involved. They’re trying to find the perfect match for their precious baby so they need to get to know the real you.
6. Don’t give up
You’ll face difficult moments. You might get rejected from a birthmother who you were SURE was “the one.” Some roadblock might pop up. You have to keep your faith strong, and know that the journey is worth it – you’ll end up with a beautiful baby.
