Nowadays, it is possible to adopt a child from other countries.  This concept is what they commonly call transracial adoption.  This originated after the World War II.   Americans begun to adopt children for humanitarian reasons.

For this to happen, the would-be parent must comply to the conditions and adoption procedures of the country where the child belongs.

It is understood that such child has different set of practices or culture.    The adoptee’s culture is part of his self.  The adoptive family must recognize this aspect of the adoptee.  Now, the adoptee should be given the opportunity to express himself.

Several things can be done in order help the adoptee celebrate his cultural heritage:

1.    Bringing out conversations where the adoptive parent and adoptee can talk the later’s culture.

2.    One of  the adoptive family’s recreational activity may include watching TV shows and playing games coming from the adoptee’s country.  Thereby showing him his  culture.

3.    Cooking meals that are a specialty in the child’s country.

4.    Helping the child learn more about his country’s language.  The adoptive family  can even agree among themselves to speak the adoptee’s language oftentimes.   They can also teach the child some songs and dances originating from his birth     country.

5.    Once in a year, the family can visit the child’s country or place.   They can also visit museums and public libraries that would allow the child to know more about  his country’s historical background, location, and any other current events.

6.    They could also celebrate the significant events in the child’s country such as Independence Day, Halloween season, etc.

7.    Having books and other reading articles that talk about the adoptee’s country, country maps, national flag, pictures of the place, animals, and the citizens of his country may also be included.

Though he differs in cultural heritage, the adopted child must be assisted by his foster family in embracing his beginnings.  The child must be made to understand that cultural differences in their family is no big deal.  The child, at his young age, must be taught how to look back and remember his beginnings.  It is part of their responsibility.

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