Welcoming a new child into the family is a moment worth celebrating time and time again. And step one is to have a traditional baby shower … with a twist. Adoption showers are becoming more and more popular as parents prepare to welcome the latest addition to their family.
Whether its international or domestic, their world is about to change, and that "missing piece" will finally arrive home. Here are some ideas for a lovely adoption shower to get the parents-to-be ready for their latest family member.
#4 is so "punny" and cute! Which is your favorite?
Image via CommunityPuzzle/Etsy
Globe-Trotting Invitation
If the child is traveling internationally to come home, incorporate the "globe-trotting" theme into the shower. This "wordly" globe cracks open to reveal a custom invite for all your guests.
All Around the World
The globe and "all around the world" theme can go even farther. Set up globes around as decoration with ideas like these from Jess McClenahan.This doesn't just apply to international adoptions either — it can be a methaphor to show "there are no borders when it comes to love!"
Country Info
To educate all the guests, and to incorporate a fun conversation started, feature facts on the child's home country (or state) around the party. Then, plan a surprise quiz during the festivities to see who paid the most attention. Framed versions can be given to the family for the baby's new room.
Missing Piece
Looking for a gift for an adopting mother? A "missing piece" necklace, token, or ornament is always loved. After all, she's finally welcoming home the missing piece of the family!
More from The Stir: 21 Celebrities Who've Adopted Kids
Puzzling Advice
Keeping the "missing piece" theme going, have guests write advice on little puzzle pieces for the family! Whether it's advice on how to swaddle a baby, or how to talk to older kids about adoption, parenting tips are welcome!
Notes For the Family
Alternatively, print small photo-sized pages with the outline of the adopted child's home country and then have guests write fun, inspirational notes for the family. They can read these sweet words while traveling to meet their newest member.
Bilingual
Are they planning for an international adoption? If so, learn more about the child's culture and language with fun pop-up translations throughout the space to make it feel like home.
Important Dates
From their birthday, to the placement date, to the take-home date, they're all important days that'll forever go on the family's calendar. Commemorate them with a special "important dates" plaque. It doubles as shower and nursery decor.
More from The Stir: Couple's Moving Adoption Announcement Is a Kid's Fairy Tale Fantasy Come True
A 'Found' Cake
When it comes to dessert, it's all about the found missing piece, like this cake from Cake-A-Licious!
Family Tree
With this family tree kit, have each guest stamp their thumbprint on the branch. Then, take a step back, and take a look at how many loved ones are ready to welcome baby into the inner circle.
Party Favors
Finally, as a parting gift, give out these punny "Mento-be" favors. Get it? Get it?
It was meant to be, after all.
