What we should have known before we took our newly adopted 13-year-old on a surprise Disney World vacation.
Preparing Siblings for an Older-Child Adoption
We’ve decided to adopt an older child. We have two children now, and we’re wondering how best to integrate our new child into the family. What’s your advice?
[Book Review] Ten Days and Nine Nights: An Adoption Story
Roberta Rosenberg reviews Ten Days and Nine Nights: An Adoption Story, by Yumi Heo, a children’s book about a child waiting for her new sibling’s arrival.
“Mixing Up Our Family’s Birth Order”
Although “expert advice” tells parents not to disrupt the birth order when adopting, reshuffling the deck gave us just the right hand.
When Your Older Child Comes Home
We’re about to adopt a seven-year-old. Does he have to start school right away? What about medical care? What can wait until we’ve bonded?
“Mother’s Day Chocolate”
In one life-changing day, I became a mom. But I took time to savor the sweetness of a dream coming true.
Overcoming Older Child Anxiety
We recently adopted a five-year-old. She seems so fearful and anxious! How can we help her learn to trust and love us?
“Nursing Matthew”
Breastfeeding my baby has been one of the most challenging — and rewarding — things I’ve ever done.
“Missing My Mom as I Became a Mother”
After I lost my mother, parenting seemed too difficult to face. But her faith in me gave me the strength to push through.
“When Relatives Never Get Adoption”
Two AF readers open up about the painful and rarely talked-about experience of dealing with a relative who never gets on board.
“Finally — Finalization!” — Part 6 of Foster Adoption Series
In part six of our adoption odyssey, Angie and Alexandra become our children in the eyes of the law. In our hearts, that had happened months ago.
Formula — What You Need to Know
With all the conflicting information on formula, it’s no wonder parents can get confused. Our adoption medicine expert is here to help.
“Balancing Act” — Part 5 of Foster Adoption Series
In part five of our family’s adoption odyssey, we begin the tug-of-war also known as parenting a teenager.
“Learning How to Settle In” — Part 3 of Foster Adoption Series
In the third part of our family’s adoption odyssey, our new daughters help us rediscover the joy in everyday moments.
“A New Family Dynamic” — Part 2 of Foster Adoption Series
In the second part of our family’s adoption odyssey, we meet our new daughters and confront their past — and look to our future together.
When You Adopt a Baby: An Overview of Developmental Stages
A look at what to expect at different developmental stages of babyhood—and what each stage means for adoptive parents.
“A Home for Helen”
She was a motherless five-year-old living in an Ethiopian orphanage. The package in her hands promised a brighter future.
“Helpless Love”
There is an irrevocable moment when you become a parent, an instant when the idea of your child enters your heart forever.
When the Circle of Family Grows
Parents always celebrate when a new child joins their family. But adoptive moms and dads might want to mark their blessed event with a meaningful ceremony beyond the usual festivities.
All Through the Night
Parents and experts weigh in on the best ways to get our kids to sleep.