Host a Baby Shower for an Adopted Child

Couples looking to adopt a child are in the midst of one of the most exciting and rewarding times in their lives. An extensive amount of planning, preparation and even financial investment is necessary during the adoption process, which is typically very lengthy and tiresome.

After the completion of the legal adoption, some semblance of a normal life will resume; but of course, a special baby shower party is in order to help in welcoming the new addition to the family.

Baby showers for adopted children require some of the same timing requirements as those held for non-adopted children, but a few additional considerations should be accounted for.

If a shower is planned prior to the child’s arrival and the finalization of the adoption, there is always a risk of unforeseen delays, legal issues, and even the possibility of the entire prospect falling through. Thus, it may be more appropriate to plan a baby shower after the finalization of the process.

Of course, if the parents have no other children and this will be their first, there’s a whole host of supplies they’ll need to welcome a new infant or child into their home. This issue is always best determined by discussing it with the future parents. Use their preferences to plan the baby shower around a certain time and date, and remember to stay flexible on this – the fact that you have something to celebrate is the most important thing.

Many baby showers for adopted children, if conducted after finalization, will include the child in the celebration. This calls for ensuring every aspect of the shower is age-appropriate. For an older child, you may gear it as more of a birthday celebration where guests can bring gifts specifically for him or her.

Baby shower decorations, baby shower invites, the baby shower cake and even the games and activities to take place need to be customized for this purpose. Consider a baby shower theme or birthday geared specifically toward the child, such as a magician for entertainment, reserving a location known for catering to that age range, or having a party centered around a favorite character or hobby.

Also consider that asking guests to bring their own children will make a fun outing for the entire family, and allow the newly adopted child to begin socializing with new family and friends. Ask the parents for input on what types of gifts they would consider appropriate, or if there are specific items they would like to receive.

Outside of these considerations, all other standard rules apply when throwing this type of baby shower. Baby shower invites or ‘Welcome Party’ invitations should still be sent out 4 to 6 weeks ahead of time, and the location should be determined and reserved if necessary.

Menu planning, decorations, supplies and activities should all be planned, as well as transportation back home for the family that most likely will need to haul much more than they came with.