The choice to adopt a child from the foster care system in Tennessee is a major moment for you and the child. If you are worried about your kid’s adjustment, there are some ways you can make the transition easier.
If it is safe for the child, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Children’s Bureau advises that you maintain connections with the child’s birth family. Respect your child’s unique history and identity because this will always be a part of who he or she is.
Remember that your child may experience a range of emotions because of the adoption. This may occur in different ways over the course of his or her life. It may help that you have additional support to help you and your child. Do not discourage older children from speaking about their experiences in their prior home. Older children will often seek to understand their circumstances.
Even before the adoption, make sure that your child understands the difference between foster care and adoption. Ask him or her what the difference between foster care and adoption is. It can help to stress that the major difference is that once adopted, he or she is a permanent member of the family.
The adoption should be a milestone. You can create events and anniversary celebrations around the adoption day. In addition, create new traditions with your child and the rest of the family. This can make your child feel special and involved in the family.
The above is meant to be informative on how to help your child adjust to adoption, it is not legal advice.