Hugging our new dog, my daughter learns that no matter what the behavior, our family is forever.
[Book Excerpt] No Biking in the House Without a Helmet
Melissa Fay Greene flawlessly captures the journey of building a family through adoption in this heartwarming memoir.
Feeding 101
Feeding is about more than just nutrition! Here, answers to all your feeding questions.
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.
“Bonding with My Daughter Through Song”
When I vowed that my child would get as many bedtime songs as she wanted, I hadn’t counted on this particular child’s determination.
When One Parent Is Rejected
A newly adopted toddler may ignore or even push away one parent. Here’s how to cope and earn his trust.
Ask AF: Time to Bond
When you finally bring your baby home, your family will probably be very excited to meet her. Mary Ann Curran suggests ways to explain the bonding cycle to them and gently request time to be alone.
Ask AF: Keeping Attachment Strong After Returning to Work
When returning to work becomes a necessity, some parents worry about maintaining their attachment with their newly adopted child. Holly van Gulden offers advice (and reassurance).
”Attached at the Hip“
Learning to love my “barnacle” baby wasn’t easy.
“We Got the Best One!”
Sometimes, bonds in adoption form so instantly, so mysteriously, you just wonder how you ever got this lucky…
Ask AF: When “Crying it Out” Isn’t the Answer
A parent who recently adopted asks if letting her toddler son “cry it out” is the best way to go with regards to attachment. Diana Schwab, M.Ed., LSW, answers.
When You and Your Baby Don’t Speak the Same Language
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.
“The Final Step”
A mother is surprised at her tears when, standing in a courtroom, that last bit of red tape comes unstuck.
After the Bliss
For many adoptive moms, post-baby depression is a real and painful ordeal. Shelley Page reports why it happens and how to feel better.
Your Baby’s Memory Book
Create a simple story for your young child to learn and grow with.
Ask AF: Breast Milk or Formula
Answers to your parenting questions.
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.
Feeling Like Part of the Extended Family
The more you involve the grandparents (and aunts, uncles, and cousins, too) in you adoption process, the more your child feels like part of the clan.
Ask AF: Building Relationships
Our toddler bonded very quickly with our immediate family, but she still refuses to allow anyone else to hold her, including our relatives. Is this normal for a two-year-old?
Going Back to Work
AF readers find creative ways to balance career and family. In this special report, we share some of their best advice.