The Internet requires a cautious approach when teens are looking for answers about adoption.
Building Your Child’s Sense of Self-Worth
Families that expand their worlds to incorporate all kinds of cultures help their children develop strong racial identities.
Ask AF: A New Sister
We’ve been reading a Big Brother book to our three-year-old son (adopted at birth) to prepare him for the arrival of a six-week-old sister.
Preparing for Questions About Adoption at School
Before first grade, parents need to teach kids how to respond to unwelcome comments about adoption at school.
Ask AF: Bonding with a Newborn
My baby will already be two days old when I bring her home. Should I be concerned about bonding?
“Our Agonizing Decision to Decline a Referral”
We thought accepting a referral would be the easy part. It wasn’t.
Ask AF: Step-Adoption and the Birth Family
Answers to your parenting questions.
[Book Review] In My Heart
Molly Bang's warm, reassuring children's book provides a tender reminder of the bond between parent and child, even when they are apart all day long. In My Heart doesn't mention adoption, but the illustrations led my son to say, "Look, Mom! He's adopted, like me!"
“Open Adoption Converts”
Nowadays, I can't imagine my family having come together any differently. But it wasn't always that way.
Whose Story Is It, Anyway?
Sharing information about your family gets trickier as your child grows older.
“A Fearless Love”
I expected that my new daughter would need some time to get used to me, but I never thought she'd be frightened by me.
Tackling Tricky Assignments
Creative solutions for tricky school assignments, from bringing in a baby picture to the family tree.
“What an Embarrassment!”
As my daughter approaches the tween years, she’s becoming more aware of who she is and of how others see her — and me.
[Book Review] The Connected Child
An adoptive parent reviews The Connected Child by Drs. Purvis and Cross, a book about helping children overcome early trauma.
Open Adoption and the Family Tree Assignment
Your child was just assigned the family tree in school. What now?
Ask AF: Educating a Coworker
A co-worker made a flippant remark about adoption. Should I respond, or let it go?
Ask AF: Separation Anxiety?
Some adopted children may have some sort of separation anxiety, and need constant reassurance that you are indeed their "forever parents," advises Joni Mantell, LCSW.
Balancing Cultural Activities in the Family Routine
If your child seems more interested in soccer than culture camp, don't panic.
Ask AF: Time to Bond
When you finally bring your baby home, your family will probably be very excited to meet her. Mary Ann Curran suggests ways to explain the bonding cycle to them and gently request time to be alone.