When Janice and Paul’s daughter turned 7, they breathed a sigh of relief. Last year Emily’s favorite word was “no,” and she talked back constantly. Alas, now she seemed worried and sad. She felt that no one liked her at school, that the other kids thought she was weird.
The Continuing Adoption Conversation
Around age six or seven, children start to wonder, “Who am I?” This is when our children can truly understand that joining your family through adoption means they left another.
“Adoption 101 in Room 26”
When presenting adoption to 10-year-olds, the teacher’s cooperation and your child’s involvement are key.
Has Adoption Come Up in your Child’s Classroom?
We asked AF readers to share their stories. Here’s what they said!
Thanks for the Memories!
A lifebook can fill in the gaps of your child’s early story — and creating it can be a fun project for all of you.
View the Sound Sleep Strategies Webinar Replay
View the replay of a webinar with adoption medicine specialist Sarah Springer, M.D., FAAP, to learn why sleep problems are common in children after adoption, and get her advice and solutions.
“Just Like Mrs. Bear”
With the right props and preparation, my adoption presentation to my son’s first-grade class went wonderfully. He was proud to be a part of it, and I was proud of him.
“Don’t Tell Anyone I Was Adopted”
The school year brings the realization that not every child has two sets of parents. Here’s how to help your child cope.
“A Gift in the Mail”
Games of being found and reunion can comfort all children.
“What We Wish We Had Known”
Looking back, I began the journey of adopting an older child somewhat naively. My daughter and I agree that these seven truths could have made our path to happy a little bit easier.
Alleviating Children’s Money Worries
The recession is a grown-up problem, but kids may be having money-related concerns of their own. Here’s how to calm their fears.
Tackling Tricky Assignments
Creative solutions for tricky school assignments, from bringing in a baby picture to the family tree.
Teaching the Teachers
How one mother set out to educate her town.
Becoming an Advocate at School
There’s nothing like a school’s insensitivity to adoption to turn a quiet mom into a bold activist.
Talking About Adoption in the Classroom
Some parents choose to talk to their child’s teacher about adoption. Others believe it’s a private matter. Here’s how your fellow readers weigh in.
Finding the Right Words at School
When questions about adoption start circulating at my son’s school, I step in with a tried-and-true presentation.
Should You Tell the Teacher that Your Child was Adopted?
Should you tell the teacher that your child was adopted? What happens when your child doesn’t share your ability to learn? Parents share advice and offer support on these and other questions.
Happy Endings
The end of the school year can be stressful for children and parents. Here’s a guide for making it a smoother transition.
Mommy, Where Did I Come From?
Many adoptive parents mistake talking about the culture or place their child is from is enough. Learn why talking about birth parents matters.
“I’m a Lot Like You”
In a letter to her son’s kindergarten class, a ghost-writing mom explains what it means to be adopted and to have cerebral palsy.