Effective Ways to Bond With Your Adopted Children

Your family can finally feel complete when you navigate the adoption process and bring your child home for the first time. However, even when you're thrilled about becoming a parent and getting to provide your child with all the love and care they deserve, that doesn't mean it's always a straightforward journey. 

Some children take time to adjust, and some adoptive parents struggle with the settling-in period. Take note of these bonding strategies below to help your family adjust to this significant life change. 

Remind Them That They're Here to Stay

When you adopt a child through an adoption agency in PA, you're blessed with a new family member you can love and be loved by. However, during those early days of being in your home, some children may struggle to believe that you won't turn them away when they misbehave. They might even think that your love is limited based on their behavior. Make it clear from the beginning that you love your child no matter what and that even if they misbehave, that love won't change. 

Establish a Routine

Many children, and even adults, struggle with the unknown. Without a routine, it's not always easy to know what comes next or the expectations they should have. When you adopt a child, set a family routine as early as possible. Routines may allow for easier bonding while helping your children develop trust. You might like to start with a bedtime routine, including a set bedtime and tasks leading up to it, such as a warm drink, a bath, and a story. 

Give Them Space

When you adopt older children, it's only natural to feel like you have to be around them 24/7, providing them with guidance and attention. While most children thrive with guidance and attention, they can also require space. 

Make sure they have somewhere to call their own, and always knock when entering that space to show respect for their privacy. Even allowing your child to decorate their room to suit their tastes might help them feel more confident, welcome, and loved in your family. 

Involve Them in Family Decisions

Some children can feel like outsiders when they're adopted into an established family. They may have also had most decisions about their lives made for them, giving them very little control over themselves. 

You may be able to strengthen the bond with your child by inviting them into family decisions. Even something as simple as letting them choose a meal one night a week or picking a movie on movie night might allow them to feel included, equal, and a true member of your family. 

Encourage Communication

Communication is an integral part of any family dynamic, so work hard to keep the lines of communication open. Encourage your child to ask questions, talk about their feelings, and simply discuss their day. The more 'normal' it is for everyone in your household to discuss their feelings without discomfort, the easier your child might find it to open up and share a more significant part of themselves. 

Every adopted child is different, and every family dynamic is also different. However, some of these strategies above may be helpful when you're trying to make your newest family member feel loved, comfortable, and wanted.