3 Inspiring Ideas for an Awesome Baby Adoption Shower

In the U.S., baby showers are a tradition celebrated by the family and friends of the pregnant mom. For moms and dads who will soon welcome a child through an adoption process, the idea of a baby adoption shower might have yet to catch on.

According to Today, adoptive parents are more than likely to welcome a baby adoption shower to acknowledge the struggles and journey they went through to have a complete family. However, some adoption cases may be sensitive; thus, those organizing the event will require more careful planning than normal and constant dialogues with the adoptive parents.

Here are some inspiring ideas for throwing an awesome baby adoption shower:

1. Consider the timing first.

One of the differences between a traditional baby shower and a baby adoption shower is in the timing. Whereas a traditional baby shower can be celebrated as a surprise party at least two or three months ahead of the baby's birth, it's not possible for a baby adoption shower.

Some families believe it's best to wait before the adoption process has been finalized to celebrate and not jinx it. Some families might also feel that it could be insensitive to the birth mother to celebrate when she has yet to give birth.

So, those planning the shower should take the parents' desired timing and schedule into account. They need to have a proper discussion and get the input of the adoptive parents to see if the timing makes sense.

2. Go ahead and plan the theme.

As with the baby's birth, every adoption journey bears unique stories, and the baby adoption shower could also be a standout. According to For the Love of Adoption, the right way to work around a theme for the celebration and the most popular theme seems to be going with the baby's birthplace.

For instance, if the adopted baby was born in Florida or California, you can probably have a beach-themed or sun-themed party. If the adopted baby came from abroad, look into some heritage and cultural elements from her homeland, which can be incorporated into the theme.

3. Go with a gift card or gift registry.

Not all adoptions are babies, as some parents could be welcoming a toddler, a school-age kid, or someone in her teens. Thus, it's more practical to present a gift card or a gift registry for the guests who will be invited to the celebration.

One adoptive mom shared via Parents that they received gift cards from Old Navy, Target, and Walmart that are very useful and helpful for their 13-year-old adopted child from Colombia. She was able to pick clothes that fit her but perfectly well that made her feel a lot more accepted, comforted, and welcomed into her new community.

On the other hand, the registry can be arranged by the adoptive parents, who can be sure that they will get presents that they could use for the new member of the family. They will not be overwhelmed with useless items that could add to the clutter and the mess of a household that's still adjusting to its new dynamics.

If it's alright with the adoptive parents, the baby adoption shower could also include a celebration for the birth mother. The guests may also give her uplifting gifts, gift cards, and keepsakes that she will treasure forever.