The way we talk about things is important as it often influences the way we think about things. As families formed through adoption we become advocates for adoption. It is important for our children and our families that we help promote positive adoption language. Use the tips below to gently correct and educate others.

• Instead of “She gave her baby away for adoption” remind people that you give away old clothes/possessions. You make a plan for children. “She made an adoption plan for her baby.”
  
• When someone asks “Don’t you want children of your own?” remind them that although your child was not born to you, she/he is definitely your own child.
• When someone asks “Where are her real parents?” gently remind them that you are his/her real parents (you tuck them into bed, kiss their boo-boos, and raise them). Your child’s Birth Parents or Biological Parents are also real, as they have contributed to who your child is.