Have you been hit by the terrible twos? Sign language can be a great way to help your child communicate their needs before they can speak.
Staying Close While Giving Your Teen Space
Adolescence only lasts a short time — help your child through the rough patches and enjoy watching her grow into an individual.
The Kindergarten Transition
Starting school is exciting for kids, but it can also be a little scary. A mother of two shares her experiences and some tips on how to cope.
“Changing My Name to Mom”
As she prepares for the adoption of her third child, the author knows it is not just she who must be ready, but also the 9-year-old girl she’s fallen in love with.
When Your Teen Starts to Date
As adopted teens enter the dating game, unique issues will arise. Are you ready to tackle them?
“How Do I Manage as a Single Mother?”
Yes, solo parenting is hard work. But the freedom is good, too.
Imaginary Birth Parents
Your child may never have met his first mom and dad. But that doesn’t mean he’s not spinning stories about them.
When the Questions Begin
Your preschooler is curious — and so are his peers. Help him get ready for inquiring young minds.
Whose Dream Is It, Anyway?
Adoptive parents sometimes push their own wishes on their children. But during the teen years, an adolescent may rebel.
The Power of Mom
Who can teach an adolescent boy to open up? You guessed it.
Share Your Story: Evolving Holiday Traditions
We asked our reader panel: Did you adapt your family’s existing holiday traditions after adopting your child? If so, tell us how.
“Raising Our Daughters, Special Needs and All”
They’ll each face different issues in their lives. But my daughters will get through them together, as real sisters.
“Am I Really Pretty?”
In asking that question, was our teenage daughter really asking, Who am I? What am I becoming? How am I different from others?
Ask AF: Telling Children About a Change of Heart
Adoption expert Ronny Diamond outlines how to tell children when an expectant mother match falls through, after they’ve become attached to the idea of a new brother or sister.
Ask AF: Telling Children About a Birth Child
A parent who placed a child for adoption wonders how to go about explaining a biological sibling to her current children. Adoption expert Brenda Romanchik answers.
A Death in the Family
As children get older, they come to understand that everyone experiences loss.
The Adoption Expert? Your Child
Be alert for clues about how much information your preschooler can absorb.
Ask AF: When Is Cuddling Appropriate?
Your child might love hugs and cuddles to reinforce attachment. Diana Schwab, M.Ed., LSW, suggests other ways you can affirm your bond at those times when cuddling’s not appropriate.
Finding Strength in Your Family’s Faith
If you identify with a religion, it can be another source of support and belonging for your child.
Ask AF: Introducing Solid Foods
Answering your parenting questions.