Nowadays cross-culture adoption is common however it brings some uncommon complications when you adopt a child from a different culture, that parent has quite little more homework to do.
Before passing your tradition and culture, you have to understand your adopted child’s culture. All you need to understand your child first. As your child starts to get older, he/she becomes more expressive and start showing his/her interest through words or emotions that which parts of her culture she wants to incorporate into her life.
This unique opportunity embraces the new culture that has infiltrated your family and to provide the opportunity to teach your child to take pride in where they are from and develop appreciation and respect for others from an early age.
Prepare Yourself First – Being a adoptive parents its your duty first explore as much as you can about your child’s culture and heritage. For exploring your child’s culture go through the books and online websites, learn new recipe which are famous in your child’s place of birth.
Additionally you can explore cuisines, holidays, celebrations, language and traditions. If you have any friend and related from the same culture invite them at your home, and questions them about their favorite traditions and cultural themes, attend their religious services, meetings, etc.
Be optimistic and Open- Being born and raised in different culture is require open and honest conversation between you and your children. Let your child know that you welcome their question and curiosity if possible join them to find the answer and solution. Add artwork, home décor,music from your child’s place of origin to your home environment.
When your child reached teen age they will start to integrate their life experiences into developing their own sense of identity.Most importantly, with a positive and open home environment where they are free to explore their own culture and heritage, they will be able to incorporate a well rounded, and proud sense of themselves as they transition into young adulthood.
Don’t insist to adapt– Don’t push your adopted child hard to adapt to new changes soon. Because it takes time to learn anything new. Just appreciate your child’s efforts adding to learn the new language, enjoy new foods, and adapt to new routines. Being flexible and understanding of what your child’s needs and wants are as they grow regarding their culture and heritage will make their journey easier.
Also check International Adoption Process- INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION PROCESS IN INDIA
