Getting connected with a baby can take a long time, and after months of paperwork, research, adoption-agency liaisons, and a home study, it can be a challenge to suddenly have to sit back and wait. Many prospective parents find it hard to wait and can struggle with the blues because they feel like their life is on hold. To address this issue, we’ve come up with a list of both fun and productive activities to help with the dreaded waiting time so it can pass more quickly.
Find a Pediatrician: Use this time wisely to find the perfect pediatrician for your future child. Seek recommendations from moms groups, friends, relatives, as well as your own research. Set up interviews with your short list to make sure the pediatrician shares your views and is adoption-friendly.
Find Out Your Employer’s Adoption Policy: Many companies offer leave for parents who adopt their children, just like those who become parents by birth. If your employer does not, then you can use the time to put together a proposal for your intended leave. You can also research the Family and Medical Leave Act to discover your employer’s legal obligations.
Research Child Care Options: If you and your partner work full time, then you’ll need childcare in the future, so why not be proactive and research your options now? Popular childcare facilities may have long waiting lists, so it can be good to get your name in the queue, even if you have to wait a while before you’re connected.
Read Adoption Books and Articles: There a variety of different books and articles written by parents of adopted children. These can recount their adoption journey or provide practical parenting tips. Either way, you’re sure to learn a thing or two that will be useful when you bring your child home.
Buy Some Children’s Books: It’s never too early to read to your baby, so having a few children’s book on hand when your child arrives is a great idea. Think back to your childhood and choose some that were special to you. Research popular books and also maybe find some that deal with themes surrounding adoptions. Picking out a few books will allow you to start to bond with your child, despite not being connected yet.
Rekindle a Hobby: Keeping busy is key to making the waiting period move faster. It will also keep you in a more positive mindset. Tackle jobs you’ve been putting off for a while, try new things, or rekindle an old hobby. If you’re crafty, you may want to start a creative project for your baby, such as a blanket.
Don’t Lose Hope! The waiting process is a difficult time, but it is always important to remember that in the end, when you’re connected with your baby, it will all be worth it. Don’t put your life on hold. Instead, use the waiting period to tackle odd jobs, enjoy some “you time” or prepare yourself or your home for your new arrival.
