When children enter a family as older children or teens, or even when older children who are adopted move from one school setting to another, some of the ordinary issues of school life can become complicated for them.
Confronting Stereotypes and Prejudice About Adoption
“Adopted Teen Arrested,” the newspaper headline reads (never “Birth Teen Arrested”). Is this just another example of sensationalism by the media or do adopted teens get into more trouble than their non-adopted peers?
Is College Right for Your Teen?
Some teens are ready to go away to school and hit the books. Others may need different options.
When “What Should I Wear?” Gets More Complicated
Negotiate a set of fashion “dos” both you and your daughter can live with.
Dealing with Loss of a Grandparent
Often, the loss of a grandparent will be your child’s first experience with death. If a child is close to her grandparent, the loss will be that much harder.
Supporting Your Teen’s Developing Identity
Questions from their peers get more complicated for our teens—and their peers’ questions may reflect their own worries about adoption.
“Is That Your Family?”
By now, you and your teen have established a firm family bond. But outsiders may not see it that way.
Teens in Search of Romance
Families whose friendships cross racial lines send a clear message about whom their kids can date.
When Teens Find Birth Family Online
Got a Web-savvy teen on your hands? Here’s how to set safety guidelines for online birth family contact.
Responding to “My Real Mom Would Let Me!”
When they’re angry at us, teens may bring up the subject of birth parents. Here’s how to answer calmly.
Teens and Open Adoption
As teens seek independence, they rethink their relationships with all the adults in their lives — including birth parents.
Searching for Self
Can’t pry your teen from the computer? The Internet can be a great tool for finding identity and networking with other adopted teens.
When Therapy Is in Order
Sometimes, a teen’s behavior calls for outside help. What to watch for and how to find the right adoption therapist.
Helping Your Teen Survive Cliques
Sometimes teens feel left out of the in crowd. Here’s how to help.
Special Report: Adoption & Teens — The Psychological Background
Adolescence is tough, but don’t worry: our adopted kids’ experiences will usually fall well within the bounds of typical teen development.
Special Report: Adoption & Teens — Parenting Strategies
Adoptive Families explores common situations you may face while parenting your adopted teen.
Ask AF: Helping Mom Handle the College Transition
Answers to your parenting questions.
Growing Up and Growing Older
“What do teens, who are moving toward college or career, need from their parents?” I asked my 17-year-old high school senior, as I sat hunkered over my laptop.
Ask AF: Introducing Boundaries
Answers to your parenting questions.
Adoption Support Groups for Teens
An adoption support group can provide a safe and comfortable venue for your teen to explore adoption and his larger identity in a new, more complex way.