But here’s the thing—as much as we can try to protect him and teach him to protect himself, there may come a time when your child will be involved. As the parents of the white friend of my black son, I need you to be talking to your child about racism.
Two Adoptees on Going “Home” to China, Again
After a birth country visit to China that was too much, too soon for my seven-year-old daughter, she and a friend returned on their own terms as teens. The trip helped them imagine what their lives might have been and explore their Chinese-American identities.
[Book Review] Saving the Dream
A reader reviews Saving the Dream, a novel that explores the “What if?” questions that plague many families.
Should We Adopt Transracially?
For many prospective adoptive parents, “the choice” of where and how to adopt is the most difficult part. Answers to three common questions when deciding if transracial adoption is right for your family.
“My Daughter’s Loving, Supportive Role Model”
I don’t always know how our racial differences affect my daughter. But I know that having a role model of the same race has been a blessing for her — and for me.
Ask AF: Cultural Connections
Answers to your parenting questions.
6 Questions to Ponder Before Making a Homeland Trip
More and more families are finding that “going back,” whether to San Antonio or San Salvador, gives their children a foundation for building identity.
“Choosing Not to Share My Children’s Adoption Story”
May I take my children to the grocery store or the library without announcing where they came from, or my own history? I think, yes.
“Looking Different, Dressing Alike”
When we stepped into the next parking lot, she took my hand again. “It’s good we’re wearing our shoes,” she said. “We match. That way, people know we belong together.”
“Visiting Our Daughter’s Orphanage”
One of the cold realities of adopting an older child from China is that she comes with a lot of questions, many of which you can’t answer.
“Finding Tess”
India Camp gives our daughter a chance to be around kids just like her. Along the way, she’s discovered her true self.
When Kids Face Racism at School
Racial bullying is especially harmful. Here are some strategies to help your child cope and respond to racial teasing.
“Journey to Calcutta”
Despite my parents’ urging, I had always rejected my Indian identity. At 21, I learned to embrace it.
“My Little Man’s Hair”
Sam’s hair is close-cut and precisely edged. Looking at it from any angle, you can see that this child’s mother knows how to care for his hair. This has not always been the case.
“Why Tae Kwon Do?”
So far, each step I have taken into my future daughter’s world has taught me nearly as much about myself as it has about her culture.
“Being Noticed as a Transracial Family”
For once, the barista at Starbucks didn’t recognize me. He shouldn’t. I’m there only about once a month. The thing is, he remembers me. Well, not me so much as us. This is one of those things that come with being the white mother of a black child. Comments, questions, stares—those I expected. The strange experience of just being visible—not so much. I didn’t realize how invisible I was until I wasn’t anymore.
“The Refrigerator Picture”
When I dressed up my daughter and took a portrait, was I just showing off my cute kid — or perpetuating stereotypes?
Ask AF: On Race and Beauty
Answers to your parenting questions.
“Learning to Care for My Daughters’ Hair”
I felt frustrated, thinking I’d never learn how to cornrow. Now, I show others how to care for tight, curly hair.
Going Camping
Three camp options offer unique ways to explore your childs roots and emerging identity during the summer months.