Search Results for: open adoption

identity-formation-in-adolescence

Birth Parents on Their Minds

Your teen probably spends a lot of time thinking (or fantasizing) about her birth mother. Here's how to get some of those thoughts out in the open.

Gotcha Day

Parent-to-Parent: The Great Gotcha Debate

The term "Gotcha Day" has ardent fans and strong detractors in the adoption community. We asked Adoptive Families readers how they feel about it, and whether they use the term in their family. Here's what you said.

Our Family Snapshots

We asked AF readers to send in their most memorable family portraits, and the response we got was overwhelming. Each photo represented a story that was inspiring, fascinating, and unique. Here are a few of our favorites.

The Palmer family, who discuss their relationships with birth mothers of their children

“A Love We Never Expected”

When we first considered adoption, my husband and I discussed how much contact we were willing to have with the birth mother. We didn't realize how close we'd become to the whole birth family.

A young toddler at his birth mother's graduation

“The Whole Journey”

When our son’s birth mother was making that painful decision — raise a child or finish high school — we were the family she chose. So when she invited us to her graduation, nothing could stop us.

Expectant Mom Match

The Expectant Mom Match

On our Facebook page , we asked readers, If you adopted a newborn domestically, do you know why your child’s birth mother or birth family selected you? Here’s what you said

therapeutic writing

Putting Your Feelings on Paper

Infertility, parenting after adoption, growing up in an adoptive family, relinquishing a child—all give rise to complex emotions. Learn about the innovative Therapeutic Writing model that’s helping many lay bare and make sense of their innermost thoughts.

A pen writing a will and choosing a guardian for their child

Choosing a Guardian

"I'm thinking about making a will. How do I choose a guardian for my child? What should I consider?"

Adoption Experts answer your questions.

Ask AF: Birth Grandparent Contact?

Our expert explains how contact with birth grandparents can be beneficial for children, and the guidelines for setting up a relationship that will last.

Notable new adoption memoirs, children's books, novels, and guides published in 2014.

Notable New Reads

Adoptive Families rounded up the best books about adoption published in 2014. Here are our favorites and new reads to add to your list.

Wondering what type of gifts for birth parents to buy? We have answers.

Gifts for Birth Parents

Our readers share their recommendations for gifts for birth parents at the time of placement. Their advice? Keep it small and personal!

Children adopted through the foster care system

Fostering Positive Perceptions

The number of children adopted from foster care has dropped in recent years — and a new survey finds that Americans believe many myths about the process. Here are the facts, and real-life stories, that could help find more kids permanent homes.

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