There are times when your parents may not be the easiest people in the world to talk with, and it is even worse if the subject of the conversation is something that you know will be upsetting.  The important thing to remember is that if you are a pregnant teen, your parents are the people who are in the best position to help you handle your problem and make responsible decisions.

BUT HOW DO YOU BREAK THE NEWS?

Choose a time when you will have complete privacy with your parents as well as their attention.  Tell them that you have to talk to them about a serious matter and ask them if they will not interrupt you until you have finished.

From the first word you utter, be completely honest with your parents.  Ask them for their help.  If your parents have been there for you in the past, chances are they will want to be there to support you through this difficult time.

Avoid arguing and sarcasm; remember that you will have to expect some anger from your parents, but at this time in your life, they could  be the best friends you could have.

After the first waves of shock have faded, talk with your parents about how you will handle this situation.  If you have decided to keep your baby and your parents agree to continue to let you live at home, what new rules will be involved?

If adoption is what you have in mind, ask your parents for their full support in this decision.  After thinking the situation through, they will most likely be very supportive in this decision.  Tell them about your options with open adoption, including the contact you and your family can have with your child and the adoptive family, and the ability to choose your baby’s parents and meet them beforehand.

Contents excerpted from Lifetime Adoption Magazine Volume 10 Issue 1 ISBN 9780970573476, Copyright ©2007. Excerpted with permission. All rights reserved. http://lifetimeadoptionmagazine.com/