What to expect at a first meeting with adoptive parents
For moms who have chosen to place their babies for adoption, finding parents looking to adopt is the easy part. But choosing the people who will raise your child can be a bit more challenging. Most people who come to us seeking adoptive parents in Texas say they “just know” when they find the right couple while reviewing adoptive parent profiles. Even so, meeting with those adoptive parents in person can often create a case of the jitters.
“What if they don’t like me?” “What if I don’t like them?” “Are we going to have anything to talk about?” These are all normal questions for a young mother meeting with adoptive parents for the first time. After all, it can feel like a high-stakes meeting when the future of your child is at stake. That’s why your Legacy counselor will be with you every step of the way.
What to keep in mind when meeting with adoptive parents
While it is natural to want to make a good impression, remember that it’s likely the hopeful parents are even more nervous than you are. At the same time, they are very excited to meet you, learn about you, and thank you for giving them a life-changing opportunity. They will be going into this meeting filled with gratitude and love for you.
Your counselor will attend the meeting with you, so you won’t have to worry about lulls in conversation or awkward moments. Your counselor can guide the conversation, if needed. However, it’s good to prepare ahead of time by thinking about topics or questions you’d like to discuss.
The conversation doesn’t have to be heavy or serious. You can talk about hobbies, TV shows, sports or music, for example. To get to know the family better, you can ask about their jobs, community, favorite foods, other children, home life, travels, extended family, and personal and family goals.
Our counselors have a few more tips for your first meeting with adoptive parents.
- Be honest. Always answer questions truthfully, so that there are no surprises for anyone down the road.
- Avoid topics related to money or payments.
- Try not to force things. If it doesn’t seem like you agree on a lot of things, that’s OK! Don’t worry if your hobbies and interests don’t seem to line up. The most important thing is how you feel about the couple’s ability to give your child a beautiful life full of love. You’ll have more time to find common ground later.
- Get to know each other as people, and you will likely find yourself appreciating how dedicated the couple is to providing a good future for your child.
This is a wonderful chance to get to know the parents looking to adopt your baby
Your first meeting with adoptive parents could be the start to beautiful, lifetime-long relationship. The reason both parties are there is because you all have your child’s best interest at heart.
Be compassionate, kind and patient. Lean on your counselor for guidance. We are here to support you as you get to know the parents looking to adopt your baby.
To learn more about our adoptive parents in Texas, contact us to speak to an experienced adoption counselor at Legacy.