Wow. How exciting is it to know that in a few short months you will be welcoming your child into your home?

There are so many things you want to do to prepare for this big event. With the adoption of an older child there is so much more involved. So much more to think about. Because you will want this child to feel welcome. To feel safe. To know this is a new beginning.

So how do we go about this:

1). Remember to ask questions. You will want to find out everything you can about your child. What they like and dislike. What their favorite foods are. What their favorite colors are. What kinds of games they are used too. So on and so forth.

2). Prepare a photo album of your family, house and pets. Add all the interests that you like and dislike like. Give this to the child prior to formal adoption so that they can relate and make a decision if your family might be a place they want to know and become part of.

3). Ask about medical, dental and biological history. This type of information is always a good thing to have for the future.

4). Prepare a space where the child will sleep and be able to call their own. Then ask them what color or what kind of decor they would like to have in their own space.

5). Remember to include the child in every family activity. But realize they may be a little stand offish in the beginning. They are trying to observe and feel apart of your family.

6). Pick up some of the basic things your child will need like socks, underwear, jeans and t-shirts.
But plan a shopping trip for you and your new child
after they are home and ready to begin fresh. This will help you get to know your child's style and taste in clothing.

7). Remember it is ok to say NO. Every parent needs to establish boundaries and a new child will push to see how far they can go before you put them in check.

8). Provide quiet time for you and your new child.
Every one will need time to think and regroup and deal with all the new feelings of a new family members arrival.

It will take time and energy. But so much of it all comes natural with time. We all need a family and we all need guidelines to survive in this life.
Do not be afraid to parent and be equal. Do not make a difference between your new child and your biological children. Family rules are family rules.

Good Luck and Enjoy the wonder of adoption.