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Staff Cared for This Baby Until the Open Adoption

This space concerning open adoption could be filled with revealing human stories—stories that are as heartwarming as they are heartbreaking—stories about deep pain in the midst of joy.

We don’t write most of these stories to protect the confidentiality and personal experiences of those involved. We want all our birth mothers and adoptive families to know that we care deeply about their privacy and humanity.

And so we won't give details on this little one and why we, as an agency, cared for him for a few days before his adoptive parents arrived.

 But know that his birth mother deeply loved him. Her situation involved health challenges, limited support systems, and significant stress.

Know that his adoptive parents and birth mother were in contact through a secure computer app called OurHeartsConnect. They discussed the needs of this precious child. They were getting to know one another to maintain a long-lasting open adoption connection. They were learning to love and respect each other even before sharing pictures of the child.

When the adoptive family finally held this little one in their arms, they started sharing those precious moments with the birth mother through pictures.

In the meantime, there are loving caregivers:

 

  • One of our case manager’s daughters adored him.
  • Team members rocked him to sleep.
  • Another case manager tended to him while counseling other birth mothers.

Rest assured, whatever it takes to support these beautiful children and their courageous mothers, we’ll be right by your side. You can count on us to stand beside you and offer whatever support is needed for these wonderful children and their brave mothers.

Having multiple caregivers, regardless of how loving, kind, understanding and capable, can present challenges.

If you’re adopting a child who has had multiple caregivers, here are ways to minimize the risk of attachment disorders:

  • Limit the number of new caregivers during the transition period

This is especially important. You and maybe one other should do all the feeding, comforting, and caring. Spend a few months NOT allowing others to take the child. He will need to bond with you.

  • Establish a consistent routine to provide stability and predictability
  • Respond promptly and consistently to the child’s needs
  • Use physical touch, such as cuddling and holding, to promote bonding
  • Maintain eye contact and engage in face-to-face interactions
  • Practice “kangaroo care” or skin-to-skin contact when appropriate
  • Use a calm, soothing voice and positive reinforcement
  • Create a safe, nurturing environment at home
  • Seek professional support if needed, such as attachment-focused therapy
  • Be patient and understanding, as building secure attachments takes time

Remember, every child is unique, and with love, patience, and proper support, secure attachments can be formed even after challenging beginnings.