How to Make Sure Your Transracial Adoption is a Success
Whether you are a birth mother trying to choose the perfect home for your child or a family looking to adopt, there are many aspects to keep in mind during the adoption process. In this short dialogue, we will be discussing the benefits of transracial adoption, obstacles to overcome and end with a few goals to strive for. This is not only to make the transition as easy as possible, but also to set them up for future success.
If you need help with adoption now, contact Adoption Choices of Texas. You can call us at 945-444-0333, text us at 945-444-0333, or email us here. If you are hoping to adopt, please visit us here.
What is transracial adoption?
Transracial adoption occurs when a family chooses to adopt a child of a different race than their own. Regardless of the reason behind this decision, there are benefits, as well as a few obstacles, to consider.
- Your child will grow up in a diverse environment
When a child is raised in a mixed race environment, they are inherently more accepting of diversity than most children. This will, in turn, allow them to empathize with others and lead to a greater ability to connect.
- Your child will be more open to discussions about race
Creating conversations about race is never easy, but if you keep the topic open with your child, he or she will be able to help others do the same. They will also be able to provide insight from their own personal experiences, and understand the reasoning behind many different beliefs.
- Prejudice can occur at a very young age
Racism can take place in any environment, even in preschool or other early education settings. It is important that you discuss racism and prejudice with your child as soon as possible, even in simple terms. This will better prepare them for any situation they encounter, and lead to even further discussions. Make sure they understand that racism is not their fault.
- Be wary of portraying the parents as “heroes”
It is not uncommon for parents to unconsciously make their child feel indebted to them for adopting them, regardless of their place of birth. This can feel like an impossible burden, so it is important to make certain that your child never feels this way.
- Keep siblings together, and consider opening your home to more than one child of color
Keeping siblings together is extremely beneficial for both of them, but especially so in a transracial adoption as it allows them to maintain their special bond and have someone else with the same background to grow with. Similarly, adopting more than one child of color will allow your children to be more comfortable with themselves and their differences.
Important goals to strive for:
- Talk about race often
Make certain that your child understands that it is okay to be different, and answer any questions that they might have. If they feel comfortable having a conversation with you, it will help them to feel more comfortable with themselves. Don’t ignore the differences; discuss them.
- Spend time with other transracial families
Interacting with other children in transracial families will make it easier for your children to thrive, as well as help their family learn and grow. They can even share their experiences and help the best decisions be made for your children.
Transracial Adoption Success
The transition to a new home isn’t always easy, but taking the time to talk with your children and help them accept themselves can make a world of difference. If you have any further questions, or you’re ready to get started, give us a call at: 945-444-0333 or visit us online at: Adoption Choices of Texas.
As an expectant woman or birth parent, to learn more about adoption, contact Adoption Choices of Texas. You can call us at 945-444-0333, text us at 945-444-0333, or email us here. If you are hoping to adopt, please visit us here. We look forward to helping you through your adoption journey!
Meet the Author: Elijah Weiner is currently studying English and East Asian Studies at Denison University, and spends the majority of his free time reading a good science fiction book. His interest has always been in fiction, so whether he is reading or writing it is always based upon the imaginary world.
Elijah lives in Boulder, Co and spends his free time reading or bicycling outdoors.
