: Birth Grandparents Tips for Meeting your Adopted Grandchild

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(402 Words)
It may be one of the most exciting moments of your life: the time when you finally meet your adopted grandchild. Of course, you want the reunion to be perfect, but remember that this is a very complicated and emotional situation that must be handled with care. The following are tips for this meeting.
Let the child dictate the meeting
Although you may be dying to become the child’s full time grandparent, you do not want to overwhelm the child. If you come on too strong, it might be frightening for the child, and they might not know what to do. You do not want to be sobbing and wailing in front of a scared little kid. The child might have an entire family and might not have everything figured out yet. Let the child have a say in the relationship.
Let the child know how happy you are to see them
More than anything the child might want to feel accepted by you. You can let the him or her know that you are so happy to be able to see him or her, and how important they are to you.
Consider bringing a little something for the child
It can be nice to be thoughtful and bring a little gift (if the parents feel it is appropriate). Do not go overboard if you are worried that they will think you are trying to bribe them. They may appreciate the thoughtfulness.
Let them speak
You should listen to them. You may have so much to say that you end the night realizing that they couldn’t get a word in edgewise. Listen to them about their interests. Try to find some things that you have in common that you can talk about.
Do not pry or be too opinionated
They may not want to discuss the adoption. Do not go beyond what is comfortable for them to talk about and do not go where it is none of your business.
Be friendly and down to earth
The child might be uncomfortable meeting you. Show that you are a nice person. Tell a little joke. Talk to them earnestly and respectfully. Try to find something to compliment them on without coming across as false.
There is no one exact way to meet your adopted grandchild since every situation and child is different. Consider the above tips to help you have a great reunion.
Updated On: 08/08/2010 Published On: 08/08/2010 Article ViewerClose
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