Birth Mother Matters in Adoption Episode 36: The Christmas Podcast For Adoptees: Include your adopted child in family traditionsHelp your child create memorial keepsakesRemember that all families are differentMake your own family advent calendar For Birth Parents:  The first year may be the hardest, as “firsts” usually are.  It can be normal for birthmothers to struggle with their child’s absence over the holidays.  Especially those who have recently placed.  Here are some things that may help: Reach out to your childIf it’s possible, make arrangements in advance to spend time with your child.Send a gift or cardAsk the adoptive parents for a photoKeep a journalConnect with other birthmothersReach out to a counselor  For Adoptive Parents: If you are in the adoption process; wanting & waiting to adopt: Trying not to focus all of your ene ...