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An Adoptive Family Holiday

How New Families Can Cope with the Chaos

By Mark Stackpole

Of special concern is dealing with family members who, for whatever reason, might disapprove of the adoption. "If relatives disapprove and cannot put aside their disapproval in front of the children, families need to evaluate whether they should see those relatives," Groza says. "An option is to have a conversation with the relatives who might have a concern and evaluate whether they can put aside their feelings for the benefit of the child. If parents are not sure, they need to determine whether it is in the best interest of their children to be around that relative." Groza emphasizes that it is more important for parents to protect their children than to worry about how a few relatives might feel.

The holiday season can be a trying time for all new families, and this can be especially true for adoptive families. There are logistical, emotional and behavioral adjustments that need to be made by parents, children and members of the extended family. Of course, none of this need stand in the way of a joyous holiday season.

Ultimately, Lauri White speaks for all new mothers, adoptive and otherwise, when she says, "I look forward to spending our first holidays with our new daughter."

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