In most open adoptions, adoptive families have a unique relationship with their child’s birth mother. In many cases, adoptive parents will schedule visits or phone calls, send photos or write letters to birth families, in an effort to create a healthy and happy family dynamic. Some adoptive parents occasionally send gifts – and with the holiday season upon us many families are looking for the perfect present to send their birth mothers, that simply states: “I appreciate you.”

Here are a few ideas you might want to send your birth mother:

Gift Cards

Here at Adoptions From The Heart, we host a “Gift Card Drive” in which we select several women who have placed their children for adoption, but are still parenting other children and are in need of financial assistance.

We donate gift cards for groceries, clothing and toys for the holidays. For many, this is the only way they can do something special for their children. Gift cards range from $25 dollars to $200 and can be a VISA gift card or a gift card to their favorite super market.

Find out a few of your birth mother’s favorite places and you too can send a gift card.

To learn more about the AFTH gift card drive visit: https://afth.org/support-our-mission/gift-card-drive/

Gift baskets

What girl doesn’t love a great gift basket? Another fantastic way to show a birth mother love and support is by making a basket filled with goodies. It can be stuffed with anything from cosmetics, wine or even non-perishable food items.

You can order pre-made gift baskets or make one – Pinterest is a great resource to find ways to create and customize a gift basket.

 Matching items

If you’re looking for a more symbolic gift for the birth mother in your life – you can try matching gifts. Purchase two alike items and give one to the birth mother and one to your child.  The purpose is to give your child and their birth mother something that they can grow and bond with together.

You can do this with teddy bears, charm bracelets, necklaces or anything of sentimental value.

 Flowers

However, if you are short on cash or time – a bouquet of flowers is a great way to show her how much she means to you. If possible, pair the flowers with a picture of your child to boost the significance.