How can I tell my child they're adopted?
20 Answers
Moderated by Danielle Johnson, MSED, Community mental Health Counseling, LMHC
Updated: May 5, 2020
Alwaysdreamin
on
Mar 8, 2015
Parenting Expert
...read more
You could possibly tell them that they have been chosen by you to be their child and this is very, very special and also a special gift from their parents. There are many books and resources available to help explain this to your child. If you are proud of the fact they are adopted and a gift to you, then they should be as well. It may take some time to adjust, however, having a support network of other adoptive parents can be very helpful as well. Thank you for your great question.
genuineSeal64
on
Mar 8, 2015
...read more
The younger they are the easier it is to tell them as they won't see it as such a big deal as you've shown them that your always going to be there for them and care for them, as well making sure to tell them that there parents cared very much for the kid and that at the time they didn't think they could be a good mum and dad so they have them to people who could :)
Anonymous
on
May 31, 2015
...read more
Just be honest. Say that you love your child a lot, and that you loved them so much, that you went to get them from (wherever they were adopted from) to adopt them. You can do this whenever you feel your child is ready emotionally to find that out. Whatever you do, make sure your child understands that you truly love them.
MamaTrinidad
on
Jun 30, 2015
...read more
You can start by explaining that no matter what you are about to tell them, you still love them. Explain the whole adoption process. If they shut down, its because they are confused. But, you can tell them that no matter what, you are their parents and you love them as they are.
AuraJoelle
on
Jan 22, 2016
...read more
Tell them gently. Look for signs to see if they know if they are or not, some children notice, others may not. It just depends on this child.
gracefulFish24
on
Feb 4, 2016
...read more
it shouldn't be hard, I am adopted and I've known my whole life, it doesn't mean you don't love them
bubblingGrace29
on
Feb 5, 2016
...read more
You can start by answering any questions that they may have about their birth parents, and the broaden the topic a bit by bringing up why they were put up for adoption, it isnt their fault, and just be there for them because your child will have a lot of questions.
Greatlistener87
on
Feb 10, 2016
...read more
Its important that your child can understand and take what you are about to tell him/her. So make sure when you tell him/her she is the right age to understand and accept what you are going to tell him/her. Its a really good thing that you have planned to tell your child as this is necessary for the trust between the both of you.
Anonymous
on
Jul 12, 2016
...read more
the sooner the better and explain your love for them is just the same, and they are special because they were chosen.
Anonymous
on
May 5, 2020
...read more
That is a very sensitive subject. However I feel that you are the expert in your life and understand best what your situation is like. I also believe you know your child better than anyone else and is more likely to understand their reaction and response to the subject. Trust yourself and whatever you decide to do I believe will be the right thing to do. Whatever the outcome, you are in control and have everything you need to support your child and yourself. In the event that you need more help that I am able to provide please let me know so I can refer you to a more qualified colleague.
Talk to an expert therapist
I understand that it's not always easy to reach out and ask for help when...
Talk to Claudette NowHow can I tell my parents that I'm gay?
262 Answers
How do I talk to my kids about sex?
50 Answers
My child says they are gay, lesbian or asexual. How do I cope?
30 Answers
What makes a good parent?
29 Answers
I'm a new parent, how can I keep my cool when my infant won't stop crying?
26 Answers
Why I am not able to forget my ex even after she dumps me?
25 Answers