Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown, 21, and Jake Bongiovi, 23 are over the moon after adopting a “sweet baby girl”. They made an announcement about the new chapter of their life on social media.
“This summer, we welcomed our sweet baby girl through adoption. We are beyond excited to embark on this beautiful next chapter of parenthood in both peace and privacy,” the couple shared on Instagram on Thursday.
The young couple tied the knot last year in October after getting engaged in 2023.
Brown had earlier talked about having a big family with her husband. In the SmartLess podcast, hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes and Will Arnett, she said: “Jake knows how important it is to me [to have a child].”
While The Electric State star is keen on establishing herself as an actor and a producer, starting a family is a priority for her as well, she had said.
Bongiovi is a model and the son of the musician Jon Bon Jovi.
What parents should keep in mind before adoption:
Learn more about the child
Irrespective of your adopted child’s age, it’s important to find out about their routine, their likes and preferences, their favourite toys or games, and in general all that you need to know about them.
Debra Harder, adoption information coordinator with Children’s Home Society and Family Services, was quoted by WebMD as saying: “You want to learn what your child’s routines are, how he might have been soothed, how he likes to be held, his favorite toys and games.”
She adds, “If you have the opportunity to meet your baby’s or child’s caregivers, this is a great opportunity to learn firsthand what he’s used to so you can help him feel more comfortable in your home with familiar routines.”
Learn about their health conditions
As parents, you must know about your adopted child’s health information – physical, mental, developmental or behavioural.
Birth record information including their gestational age, birth weight, length, head size and any complications during pregnancy or immediately after birth is important, according to ClevelandClinic.
Find out about any known allergies, current medications, immunization records, infectious disease exposures, and eye and dental records.
Wait to win the child’s affection
Eager adoptive parents may be looking at instant connection with the child, but any bond takes time, and it’s important to remember that. Invest your time, attention and care in the child, and even if they don’t love you back immediately, eventually they will.
“You may expect to fall in love with your child instantly, but that might not happen,” Maxine Walton, a social worker was quoted by WebMD. “You think it’ll be this lovely picture where you sit and nurture your child and the child gazes into your eyes right away. But you may not feel that instant bond. You may like but not love your child right away.”
Having a support system like family members and friends can play a crucial role for those who are adopting for the first time.
