Talking To Friends & Family About Adoption

Our counselors can help you prepare and be part of the conversation with your family and friends.

As worried as you may be about their reaction, there are some important reasons why you may want to talk with family and friends about your pregnancy.

Friends and family may be able to help you:

• think through your options
• receive physical, emotional or financial support
• obtain necessary medical care
• prepare for birth

Before you talk with your family or friends, think carefully about what you want to say and how you want to say it.

We suggest the following tips:

1. Make a plan.

Collect information on all of your options to show that you understand the seriousness of the situation and that you want to make an informed, thoughtful decision. The Cradle offers many  resources on our website or feel free to contact  us at any time for personal attention.

2. Write it down.

Jot down your feelings about your pregnancy, your future and the baby. Writing things down will help you sort out your feelings as well as be a handy reference during your talk.

3. Bring support.

If you’ve already shared your news with someone, consider having this person by your side during your talk. A support person can give you confidence and add a voice of reason to a difficult conversation.

4. Prepare for responses.

Be prepared for any number of responses from your family and friends. Like you, their emotions may range from joy to sadness--and you already know that they’ll be surprised. Practice how you’ll react by talking with a Cradle  counselor or trusted source first.

5. Take it one day at a time.

Consider talking to your parents, other family members or friends separately. Everyone will have a different reaction. As you begin to share your news, you will get used to different reactions and become more comfortable with your responses. And you’ll likely find more support along the way.

Throughout this time, the Cradle is here to support you.