Transracial adoptions are nothing new, but attitudes and motivations about them have changed. In the 19th century, transracial adoptions occurred, but they were generally scandalous, especially if ethnic parents adopted a Caucasian child.
After World War II, Americans adopted war orphans from around the world out of humanitarian concerns. Following the Vietnam War, American families adopted Vietnamese children orphaned by the war or fathered by American soldiers. Now, transracial adoptions are more and more common, both domestic and international.

If you are considering adopting a child of a race different from your own, here are some helpful things to keep in mind.

1. Learn as much as you can about your child’s culture

In the past, emphasis was placed on conforming the adopted child to the culture of the parents. However, a healthier approach is to blend both cultures and emphasize similarities and celebrate differences. If you are adopting a child from China, for example, spend time reading up on the area he is from – the history, traditions, and cultural quirks. Transition will be made much easier if the child feels welcome, and having elements of his culture in your home can make him feel more welcome.

2. Be ready for the comments and opinions of others

Whether solicited or not, people will comment on your transracial, adoptive relationship. Model appropriate responses for your child – rather than getting defensive, answer such comments nicely and informatively. Give facts and briefly recount your positive experience with your adopted child. If you are prepared for such opinions ahead of time, you are less likely to respond angrily. Be frank with your adopted child about the realities of prejudice and how to handle it without bitterness.

3. Celebrate your child’s culture

It can give your adopted child a sense of identity to celebrate holidays from her culture. For example, parents of African-American children may celebrate Kwanza; those who have a child from Guatemala could celebrate the Guatemalan Independence Day on September 15.

Learn about some of these traditions and teach them to your adopted child, and also teach her about your own cultural traditions and holiday celebrations. You might even celebrate your traditional holidays along with your child’s, thus teaching about the compatibility of cultures and fostering a sense of belonging.

Studies have shown that transracially adopted children thrive in homes where these sorts of cultural socializations take place. Learn, teach, and celebrate.