January 23, 2017

Adoption Books for Kids

Every once in a while we like to share our favorite children’s books that support and and discuss adoption themes. We love this method of discussing adoption with our children for many reasons. Not only does it promote one-on-one time with our children, but it’s a creative and thoughtful way to introduce themes and realities that can be overwhelming and hard to comprehend.

Let’s be honest. As parents we don’t always have all the answers, as badly as we want to. These types of books help that along by framing challenging ideas in ways that are approachable and accessible to children.

So! Here are some of the books we’re loving right now.

I Love You Like Crazy Cakes. Author Rose A. Lewis wrote a beautifully illustrated book based on her own experiences of traveling to China to adopt a child. It’s a beautiful ode from an adoptive mother to the child she wanted very much. A truly radiant story.

Two Dads: A Book About Adoption. This is such an important book because it portrays a family that is often absent from mainstream children’s lit and entertainment. Families are more diverse than ever, and children with same-sex parents deserve stories that celebrate their experience as well.

Not all children are adopted from birth. The amazing Families Change: A Book For Children Experiencing Termination of Parental Rights addresses this head-on. This book reinforces the fact that changing family structures are not the child’s fault, and offers support to children whose families are experiencing change. It’s incredibly helpful for children in the foster care system, and children who were adopted at an older age and still remember their birth parents.

We love The Family Book! “[The author’s] message about the importance of embracing our differences is delivered in a playful way. With his trademark bold, bright colors and silly scenes, this book will encourage children to ask questions about their own families. Perfect for young children just beginning to read, The Family Book is designed to encourage early literacy, enhance emotional development, celebrate multiculturalism, promote character growth, and strengthen family relationships.” A beautiful way to stimulate discussion and celebrate diversity.

Looking for more? Thanks to Colours of Us for their very comprehensive list…28 books in total, each one committed to telling the stories of all children.

What is your favorite adoption-inspired children’s book?