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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption summary
Lori Holden
Brief summary
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption by Lori Holden is a guide for both adoptive and birth parents. It offers practical advice and personal stories to help navigate the complexities of open adoption and build healthy, lasting relationships.
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Table of Contents
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption
Summary of key ideas
The Journey Begins
In The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption, we embark on a journey of understanding and embracing open adoption. Written by Lori Holden, an adoptive mother, and Crystal Hass, a birth mother, the book begins by dispelling common myths about open adoption. They highlight that open adoption is not about sharing the child, but about sharing the love for the child.
The authors emphasize the importance of empathy, respect, and understanding in building a healthy open adoption relationship. They stress the significance of acknowledging the birth parents' role in the child's life and the adoptive parents' commitment to nurturing this connection.
Understanding the Dynamics
Holden and Hass delve into the dynamics of open adoption, discussing the various forms it can take, from occasional updates to regular visits. They emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach and that the level of openness should be determined based on the unique needs and circumstances of all parties involved.
The authors offer insights into the emotional rollercoaster that open adoption can be. They discuss the fears, insecurities, and uncertainties that both birth and adoptive parents may experience and provide guidance on how to navigate through these complex emotions.
Building a Healthy Relationship
Central to The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption is the concept of building a healthy relationship between the birth and adoptive families. The authors provide practical advice on establishing and maintaining clear communication, setting boundaries, and managing expectations. They stress the importance of being open, honest, and flexible in navigating the evolving nature of open adoption relationships.
Holden and Hass highlight the significant role of the adopted child in this relationship. They emphasize the child's right to know their story, understand their origins, and feel secure in their identity. The authors encourage adoptive parents to embrace and celebrate the child's birth family, as it is a vital part of the child's narrative.
Overcoming Challenges
The book addresses the potential challenges of open adoption, such as dealing with disagreements, managing long-distance relationships, and handling difficult conversations. Holden and Hass offer practical strategies and real-life examples to help families navigate these hurdles while preserving the child's well-being.
They also discuss the impact of open adoption on extended family members, friends, and the broader community. The authors provide guidance on educating and involving these external parties to ensure a supportive environment for the adopted child.
Embracing the Journey
In conclusion, The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption encourages families to embrace open adoption as a journey filled with love, understanding, and growth. The authors emphasize that while the road may be challenging at times, the rewards of a healthy, transparent, and harmonious open adoption relationship are immeasurable.
By sharing their personal experiences and those of other families, Holden and Hass offer a heartfelt and insightful guide to navigating the complexities of open adoption. They inspire families to approach this unique form of parenting with an open heart and a deep commitment to the well-being of the child at its core.
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What is The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption about?
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption by Lori Holden is a heartfelt guide for both adoptive and birth parents navigating the complexities of open adoption. Drawing from her own experience as an adoptive mother in an open adoption, Holden offers practical advice, personal stories, and insights to help all parties involved create a healthy and supportive relationship for the benefit of the child. This book challenges traditional adoption norms and encourages a more transparent and compassionate approach to open adoption.
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption Review
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption (2013) is a valuable resource on navigating the complexities of open adoption and building strong relationships. Here's why this book stands out:
- Shares insightful perspectives from both adoptive and birth parents, offering a comprehensive view of open adoption dynamics.
- Provides practical advice on communication, boundaries, and understanding the needs of all involved parties, ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling open adoption experience.
- By emphasizing empathy and respect throughout, the book brings depth and humanity to the adoption process, making it a compelling read that resonates with authenticity.
Who should read The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption?
Adoptive parents who want to understand and navigate the complexities of open adoption
Birth parents who are considering or already involved in an open adoption
Adoption professionals and social workers seeking insights into supporting families in open adoption
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The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption FAQs
What is the main message of The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption?
The main message of The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption emphasizes building strong relationships in open adoption.
How long does it take to read The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption?
Reading The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in a few minutes.
Is The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption is worth reading for its insights into open adoption dynamics.
Who is the author of The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption?
Lori Holden is the author of The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption.
What to read after The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Minimalist Parenting by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest
- Moms Mean Business by Erin Baebler and Lara Galloway
- Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
- Screamfree Parenting by Hal Edward Runkel
- Getting to 50/50 by Sharon Meers and Joanna Strober
- The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller