The day we became a transracial adoptive family was the day we lost our anonymity in our community. We’ve learned to handle the extra attention with some advance prep before going public, some choice words, and some perspective.
Never Too Old for Family – Myths and Realities of Foster Adoption
Today in the United States, more than 123,000 children in foster care are waiting for a permanent home through adoption. Nearly 45 percent of these children are ages eight or older—and desperately need the stability, guidance, and love that only a family can provide. Learn more of the myths and realities surrounding older child adoption.
Ask AF: Responding to Insensitive and Discouraging Comments During the Wait
“I’m so excited to be moving forward in the adoption process, but, when I share that news, I’ve been surprised and frankly dismayed at some of the reactions I’ve gotten. These range from dismissive to fearful and discouraging.”
“I Can’t Believe She Just Said That!” – Biggest Adoption Misconceptions
Parents share the biggest false beliefs about adoption that they’ve encountered, from ‘love heals all’ to ‘your child is lucky’ to ‘now you’ll get pregnant!’
Promoting Adoption Awareness at School
As parents, how can you help make sure that your child and all the students at her school feel included and supported? Educate teachers about the five As!
News Brief: Adoptee Deported to Colombia
Following Adam Crapser’s deportation to Korea in October 2016, a woman adopted from Colombia as a child was deported in December. She was forced to leave behind her young son.
23 Adoption Charities for Year-End Giving
Readers and the editors of Adoptive Families nominated worthy adoption charities to consider for a year-end donation.
PSA: You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be a Perfect Parent
Learn about adopting from foster care from AdoptUSKids.
News Brief: Deportation Likely for Adam Crapser
After an October court ruling, a man adopted from South Korea by U.S. citizens at age three may be deported, almost 40 years later. Learn how to support the Adoptee Citizenship Act, which could prevent similar cases in the future.
“Adoption Is Not Second Best”
Near-strangers feel compelled to tell me about friends who got pregnant after adopting and say, “There’s still hope….” But I don’t hope for a biological child; I hope for a healthy relationship with my two kids.
How to Lobby Your Employer for Adoption Benefits
For working people who want to adopt, the need to take time off without pay may put adoption beyond your financial means.
The Other Side of Privilege
If we’re white, we experience many benefits of unearned status because we’re “the norm.” But adoptive families are not considered the norm. Now what?
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.
Whose Story Is It, Anyway?
Sharing information about your family gets trickier as your child grows older.
Teaching the Teachers
How one mother set out to educate her town.
Impassable Borders to Interstate Foster Adoption
“Interstate barriers keep children in foster care, while willing parents are ignored.”
When Other Adoptive Parents Don’t Understand
Acknowledging our connection to all adoptive families strengthens our children’s place in the world.
“Why Did You Buy a Foreign Child?”
When an anonymous poster invaded our neighborhood message board, I knew I had to answer back.
“Yes, Black Women Do Adopt”
Talking with Black women about adoption became a routine part of motherhood for me, alongside diapers, homework, and the warmth I feel every time I look at my son.
Is PAL Too PC?
Positive adoption language helps correct misunderstandings about adoption. But is it too politically correct?
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