Baby Shower for the Adopted Child

Consider the Timing

A baby shower for an adopted child need not be any different than one that's arranged for a non-adopted child. The only thing that may be difficult to plan is the timing.

Any number of factors can cause unforeseen delays in the adoption process or worse, there's always the chance that the adoption process itself might fall apart. With that in mind, it is a good idea to hold off scheduling a date for the baby shower until after the adoption is finalized.

However, this might not be what the parents want. If the adopted child is their first, they'll likely need baby gear. Even if they're not adopting an infant or toddler, they'll probably still need age-appropriate items for their child. The best approach to take when it comes to selecting a baby shower date is to discuss the issue with the parents, and then plan the shower around their desires. Each adoption case is different, and the date really isn't as important as the celebration, so it's good to be flexible.

Consider the Adopted Child's Age

Besides the issue of the date, the only other issue that needs to be taken into consideration is the age of the adopted child. Children of all ages get adopted and if the shower is to welcome an older adopted child, it's a good idea to invite children to come along. In such a situation, the shower could be planned as one would plan a birthday celebration, by selecting a theme appropriate for the child's age and gender, hiring child-friendly talent such as a clown or magician, and playing games that involve the children.

Aside from the issues of choosing a date and planning an age-appropriate shower, nothing else about the shower needs to be different. If guests are bringing gifts, they may wish to discuss what types of gifts the new parents need either with the baby shower host or the parents themselves.

Everything Else is Status Quo

Send invitations as far in advance as possible. Nowadays, it's possible to find pre-printed invitations designed specifically for the baby shower that's being given for an adopted child. As with any type of party, food and drinks should be served. And of course, no celebration is complete without eating cake! Decorate the shower location so that it has a festive feel, purchase party favors for the guests, designate someone to photograph the occasion, and make sure the guests of honor have transportation to and from the party!