Summary: It is important that adoptive parents know how to facilitate relationships with their child’s birth family, caregivers, and other important people in their lives because doing so greatly benefits children and youth. Children being able to maintain their important relationships lessen the feelings of grief and loss linked with separation, foster the development of their identity, and assist them in navigating challenges as they transition into adulthood.
Application: This tipsheet can help adoptive parents know how to support children, youth, and birth families in strengthening their relationships. It can be used in pre-adoptive training and as a refresher for parents once they accept placement of a child.
Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway
