Sibling ties are worth preserving, and it heartens me to realize how growing numbers of adoptive and birth parents are beginning to understand this fact. There are many encouraging indications that there is a huge trend to help maintain sibling ties when possible.

There are many ways to do this. Some of our adoptionblogs.com adoptive moms are well aware of this and are making some wonderful efforts in this regard. Here are some of those ways to help maintain sibling ties:

1. Adopt a sibling group - Obviously, this is a no brainer, and may be the best and most involved way to maintain contact between siblings. Several of our adoptionblogs.com bloggers have adopted sibling groups, and/or are in the process. This is a fantastic way to keep siblings close to each other, but not an option available to everyone.

2. If your child's sibling live closeby, try to maintain as much contact as possible. Encourage your child and its siblings to spend time together as much as possible. Your child will need help from you to help keep them in touch with their siblings. However, it might mean a great deal to them.

3. When your child's siblings or their location is unknown, do what you can to locate them. This is especially important with an older child that remembers their siblings. This option is also not one that is always possible. However, it can be very beneficial for siblings to reconnect with each other.

4. When distance separates siblings, consider contact by phone, regular mail or email. Help your child maintain this contact if possible. Be creative, and do try to schedule some in person visits as well when time and resources allow.

Even if some of your adopted children are unable to have contact with siblings or other birth family, do not penalize your other children from the privilege. Although it may seem unfair for one child to have contact when another does not, that is sometimes a reality of life. It is your job to try to help your child understand as much as possible and accept the situation as best they can.


For more about sibling ties:

Jean Strauss film re siblings.

Sibling Attachments.