View the replay of a webinar with Beth Hall to learn about parenting after transracial adoption and hear answers to commonly asked questions from adoptive parents.
Ask AF: “Hands Off His Hair, Please”
My son is African American. When we’re out, people frequently approach us, and want to touch his hair. Most seem to be well-meaning, but is this ever OK? What can I say?
“A Hat Just Like Dad’s”
In our newly created transracial family, my husband’s and son’s matching blue hats was a tangible link. Something that said: We belong together.
Raising a Child of Color in America — While White
Our country is far from a “post-racial” society, as this last year has demonstrated. How can you ensure that your child will grow up feeling safe, secure in his identity, and close to your family? Commit to calling out racism and fighting injustice wherever you see it.
Responding to Assumptions About Culture
Children at my daughter’s school assume she speaks Spanish, even though she was raised in an English-speaking family. What can we do?
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?
The Elephant in the Room: Handling Racism
We want to start teaching our daughter about racism early on, but we have no idea where to start.
“Wait Gain: How We Dealt with a Wait That Kept Growing”
Waiting can be brutal, but there are some benefits. Take it from someone who endured 30 months before she got to hold her son.
“In Our Own Words”: Two Adoptees’ Stories
Stop wondering how your child feels about adoption and start listening to the many adult adoptees who are sharing their experiences.
“Did You Ever Mind It?”: On Race and Adoption
I tell prospective adoptive parents to take a good, hard look at their social circles, their neighborhoods, their churches, their communities and think about how those places and spaces will look and feel to their child.
“I Just Don’t Fit In”
Tween adoptees may walk away from their cultural heritage, family outings, and even their family as they try to fit in with peers.
Secret Thoughts of an Adoptive Mother
An honest examination of an adoptive mother’s feelings before, during, and after a transracial, open adoption.
“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.
“Positive” Stereotypes
Our daughter, adopted from China, isn’t getting the help she needs in math class. What can we do?
Back to the Land: Planning a Rewarding Heritage Trip
Sometimes adopted children need to go back to their birthplaces to learn more about themselves.
“Reaching Out for Her Dad”
I had expected to form an attachment slowly, but I was instantly smitten with my daughter. She was the one who came around in her own time.
View the Transracial Adoption Webinar Replay
View the replay of a webinar with Beth Hall, co-author of Inside Transracial Adoption, to learn what parents need to know about talking to kids about race and standing up against racism.
Comments from Adults of Your Child’s Race
When you’re raising a child of another race, you may find that adults of that race approach you with questions or comments. AF’s transracial adoption expert explains what you can say.
Ask AF: Proof of Parenthood
When I take my daughter of a different race to the dentist or gym, I’m often asked to provide a document confirming my parenthood. Is this OK?
Inconspicuous Transracial Adoption: “She Looks as White as You”
Our family doesn’t provoke many questions—is it still our responsibility to offer answers?