When did you know adoption was in your future? AF readers reflect.
What If? Imagining Life in a Different Family
Sleepovers and play dates give our kids an intimate glimpse of life in a different family — and may prompt reflections and questions.
“My Daughter’s Loving, Supportive Role Model”
I don’t always know how our racial differences affect my daughter. But I know that having a role model of the same race has been a blessing for her — and for me.
Friendship Lessons
Expert tips for adoptive parents to help your child make and maintain peer relationships.
Ask AF: Cultural Connections
Answers to your parenting questions.
Ask AF: When a Child Looks Like One Parent
Answers to your parenting questions.
Standing Up to Bullies
How can you respond to bullying or protect your teen from becoming a target?
“What Will This Baby Be Like?”
A mother shares the “new, unexpected, and amazing” attributes of her adopted son, of which no one talked about at the start of their adoption journey.
Positive Adoption Language
By using positive adoption language, we can educate others and help combat stereotypes about adoption.
Relating to Relatives
There’s much parents can do to help their teens feel they belong within the larger family network.
Telling Your Family’s Story
Sure, celebrations and rituals are important to have in adoptive families, but so are ways to preserve and keep these memories alive.
“Dear Mom of an Adopted Child”
I knew you right away. I recognize the fierce determination. You are the kind of woman who Makes.Things.Happen. After all, you made this happen, this family you have.
“My Adoption (And Bunko) Support Group”
My Bunko buddies were the ones who were there for me when I suddenly got “the call.”
Helping Your Child with Peer Exclusion
Parents cannot prevent their child from experiencing exclusion or feeling “different” from time to time. You can, however, lessen the negative effects of this common occurrence during the preteen years.
Easy Does It!
Even preschoolers can get stressed by holidays. A few simple games and activities can ward off the meltdowns.
“Dear Friends and Family” — Sample Adoption Announcement Letters
You’ve made the decision to adopt. How do you tell friends and family? Use the following letters as guides when composing your own.
What Will Their Friends Think?
As kids grow up, they look to their friends for acceptance — and desperately want to fit in.
Ask AF: Should We Hold a Big Adoption Party?
Answers to your parenting questions.
Meeting the In-Laws
Our Korean-born daughter is engaged to a Korean man. We’re thrilled — but how do we discuss adoption with his family?
Choosing a Guardian
“I’m thinking about making a will. How do I choose a guardian for my child? What should I consider?”