| The way we talk and the words we choose say a | | | | Progams such as Adopt a Highway or others similar |
| lot about what we think and value. When we use | | | | to that promote adoption as a temporary thing. It |
| positive adoption language, we say that adoption is a | | | | should be encouraged to not use the word 'Adopt' |
| way to build a family just as birth is. Both are | | | | when referring to taking care of something part-time. |
| important, but not one more important than another. | | | | An adopted child wishes to remain with a family |
| Use positive adoption language instead of the | | | | forever, not until they tire of him or something |
| negative words that helps perpetuate the myth that | | | | better comes along. |
| adoption is second best. Words not only convey | | | | My adopted son and daughter do not need to be |
| facts, they also evoke feelings. When a movie talks | | | | referred of that way. They are my son and daughter |
| about a 'custody battle' between 'real parents', our | | | | just as my biological sons are. I do not refer to them |
| society gets the wrong message. It is implied that | | | | as my 'biological sons'. They are my children. It |
| birthparents are real parents and that adoptive | | | | doesn't matter where they all started from. |
| parents aren't. People will also assume that all | | | | Adoption is a blessing to a family. It is a special thing |
| adoptions are a type of a 'battle'. | | | | that not all families are fortunate enough to |
| Positive adoption language can stop the spread of | | | | experience. Let's help get more children adopted and |
| misconceptions such as these. We need to begin to | | | | keep using positive terms when speaking about |
| educate people about adoption as a very positive | | | | adoption. |
| thing. | | | | |