4 Ways to Tell Others You’re Adopting

Pam Connell, the adoption blogger at Families.com, recently featured my book, The Adoption Decision, in a post about how to tell friends and family you’re adopting.

Here are four quick tips (adapted from The Adoption Decision) for making The Big Announcement:

1. Write it. If you feel uncomfortable announcing your intention to adopt in person or over the phone, write an announcement letter. This gives your loved ones time to absorb your emotionally loaded news without the pressure of responding instantly. Write your letter in an upbeat tone that conveys your personality and your excitement about adoption. Anticipate questions people will ask, and include a list of FAQ about adoption.

2. Blog it. Blogging is an inexpensive, interactive means of sharing you’re the latest news, posting pictures, addressing hot-button issues, and educating your supporters about adoption.

3. Gift it. Create a gift box filled with trinkets from the country from which you’re adopting (if you’re adopting domestically, you can include items representative of your own country, region, or city). Insert an announcement about your child’s pending arrival.

4. Shout it. Organize a festive occasion, complete with balloons and banners. If you anticipate opposition, invite a confidante who completely supports your adoption plan.

Excerpted from Chapter 1 of The Adoption Decision: 15 Things You Want to Know Before Adopting, by Laura Christianson, Harvest House Publishers, 2007.