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Older kids and teens:

When adopting an older child, the parents may need to be extremely flexible about the room decor. They can perhaps provide the basics before a child arrives, (fresh paint, furniture, window shades) but allow the child to have a greater degree of control (depending on their age) about their own space and thus, about what is happening to them.

Each decision should be made either together with the parents or by the child alone (for teenagers). The older the child is, the more capable they are of making these choices for their surroundings. All children, and perhaps especially those in the mid-teens look forward to having their OWN space. So, consider giving them a "blank slate" and help them create something that shows their personality and style -- a space they can be proud of.

A Matter of Respect:

Finally, be aware that your child's taste may not be the same as yours. "If a parent allows the child to pick out a quilt for example - and has set a price range - the child's choice has to be respected even if it's awful, otherwise don't let them pick it," Sass commented. "Parents will need to decide what items the child can choose - and they should not be things that could possibly cause safety problems for themselves or others in the house."

She continued, "Older kids may have been shuffled around in foster care and may have things they've accumulated along the way, but they've never had a 'permanent home' before. So, parents need to be accepting -- even if items seem to be selected strictly for 'shock value' -- as a test of a new parent's tolerance."

Foreign Adoptions:

Cultural identity should also be taken into consideration when a child is adopted from a foreign country. If possible, invite them to bring their own things (whatever they have) -- any mementos that might be preserved in a frame or quilt. Then, Sass also suggests you might want to "encourage the older child to buy something new before leaving their country of birth - whatever catches their eye - whether in the airport or at a store -- something that can be the very first decoration in their new room." She also noted that parents might want to acquire items that reflect their child's heritage, and to perhaps add to that collection over the years.

In Closing:

The arrival of a child is always a momentous occasion. And an adoption may be even more so, since it represents such a new beginning for everyone in the family. Approach the decorating of this child's new room with excitement, with caution, and with great respect for the child's wishes, hopes, and dreams. Let these blossom and grow, surrounded by their new home and family, and a room that belongs just to them.