What should parents avoid when discussing adoption with their child?

• A. Withholding information about the adoption
• B. Lying about who the birth parents are
• C. Telling only one parent
• D. Discussing adoption too soon

Answer: (A)

Open, honest, developmentally appropriate communication about adoption helps a child feel secure and understand their background. Withholding information about the adoption is the main issue to avoid because secrecy can lead to confusion, mistrust, and a fragile sense of self. When parents share facts gradually and invite questions, the child learns to rely on a stable, trustworthy relationship with their caregivers. Lying about who the birth parents are crosses a clear ethical line and damages trust if it’s discovered. While timing and consistency matter—sharing too much too soon or not involving both caregivers can be problematic—the overarching practice to avoid is keeping information from the child.