My son is adopted. I'm not sure when, or how, to tell him. I don't know if I even
should! Is there a certain age when I should tell him? And is there a way to break
the news so that it won't be traumatic for him?
–
Juanita
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends telling children that they're
adopted as soon as they're able to understand — usually between ages 2 and 4.
The concept of adoption still may be beyond them, but it's important to introduce
the word to their vocabulary.
Let your son know that he can ask you any questions he has. Bringing the topic
up early on will allow both you and your child to become more comfortable discussing
what it means to be adopted.
To help tell the story of how your family came to be, consider keeping a scrapbook
of pictures and items from when your son was born and when you adopted him. Such details
and mementos can help convey your joy at having him in your life. You also might get
your son one of the many books written for young kids about being adopted.
Most important, try to make adoption something that is openly discussed, rather
than a secret with a negative undertone.
Your pediatrician can be a good source of other tips about discussing adoption.
