In part four of our family’s adoption odyssey, our daughter grapples with her learning disability.
Combating Bullying with Books
Children’s literature can be particularly helpful in opening up conversations on difficult topics. An adoptive mom reviews four books about bullying.
[Book Review] The Bully, the Bullied, and the Bystander
An adoptive mom and teacher reviews The Bully, the Bullied, and the Bystander, a book about how parents and teachers can recognize and help break the cycle of bullying.
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.
“In the Beginning” — Part 1 of Foster Adoption Series
In part one of our family’s adoption odyssey, we make our way through our state’s Fost/Adopt program and find that things don’t always go according to plan. But sometimes, that’s for the best.
“To All the Moms I Know”
My daughter is considering becoming a mother. As I think of the ways her life will change, my main resounding advice is, “You will never regret it.”
Adoption in the Movies: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
With this jocular yet telling treatise on adoption in the movies, journalist Susan Avery offers some reviews of popular films to help you decide what’s right for your family.
[Book Review] Hot Flashes, Warm Bottles
Eric McAttee reviews Hot Flashes, Warm Bottles, a book about motherhood after 40, and the joys and challenges older moms will face.
“Someone to Watch Over Me”
A Russian toddler flourishes despite a babyhood in an orphanage abroad.
Ten Tips for Helping Babies Adjust
AF’s best strategies for bonding with your new baby.
Children’s Fears
When monsters threaten, you can be your child’s safe bridge back to reality.
Developing a Body Image
“I wonder what I’ll look like when I”m grown.”
“The Therapeutic Value of Playing Our Adoption Game”
My daughter was two when I first met her at the orphanage in Russia. I knew nothing about the first years of her life, and she has no conscious memories of that time—but an elaborate fantasy life that she cultivated gave me a glimpse into how she may have experienced her early years.
[Book Review] Adoption and the Schools: A Resource Guide for Parents and Teachers
Though many schools support the ideas of diverse families and multiculturalism, adoption is rarely mentioned as one of the differences to be considered or part of a school curriculum. This book seeks to change that.
Communicating With Your Baby
Terrible twos got you down? Some simple sign language may be able to help you through this tough time.
[Book Review] Adoption and Prenatal Alcohol and Drug Exposure
If I adopt a baby whose mother may have been using drugs or alcohol during the pregnancy, what issues might I expect for my child? Are there any differences if the infant has been exposed to alcohol versus drugs or both?
When Parents are the Educators
Raising adoption awareness at school can protect your child from thoughtless remarks and benefit classmates, teachers, and the school community. Just be sure to tread lightly and respect boundaries, especially your child’s.
When Holidays Don’t Measure Up
Holiday celebrations are supposed to be joyous, but they can be a minefield of mixed emotions.
“Helpless Love”
There is an irrevocable moment when you become a parent, an instant when the idea of your child enters your heart forever.
Empowering Kids to Handle Sticky Assignments
When adoption comes up in the classroom, you can’t always help your child handle it. Here’s how to set up your child to advocate for herself at school.