Adopting.org Discussion Forums

For birthparents who have placed a child in an open adoption, having a subsequent baby that will be kept in the family can be joyous, confusing, or difficult for the placed child. Educator Brenda Romanchik offers great suggestions.

Continue reading Traditions: Welcoming New Babies in Open Adoptions

I have seen the bitterness and anger that can occur when a birthparent has another child. One child had been adopted by grandparents and then the birthmom had another baby. The child did not understand why her brother got to live with her mom and dad and she didn't. This situation needs to be handled very carefully to ensure that the adopted child still feels as secure and loved as before. This is aided by an open relationship with your child. Explain to them what is going to happen and that your love for them does not change just because you are having another child. Openness and communication is the key to making this wonderful new birth wonderful for everyone involved!

If it is handled right, it can be a wonderful experience for both the adopted child and the subsequent child. It is up to the birth mom and adoptive mom to make it a good experience rather than one that is full of pain and bitterness. Communication is vital to making this a good experience. There should be open communication between all parties so that the adopted child will feel that they can express their feelings with no risk of repercussions.