Adoption is a life-changing experience that affects every member of the triad. It is a choice not made lightly and deserves to be presented as such in the media.
For adoptees, storytelling can help them understand their unique place in the world. It can also be an emotional healing tool that helps them work through trauma and foster a sense of self-worth. As more adoptions take place, we are seeing a shift in how the adoption story is depicted on TV and in movies. Some series are taking steps to push back against the expectation that all adoptees are broken and that all birth parents are insensitive.
However, more can be done to educate the public about adoption and the complexities of the process. One way to do this is through children’s books that show a diverse range of families formed by love.
Children’s books that feature adoptions include “Susan and Gordon Adopt a Baby” – This book shows how a family can grow by sharing their love with another. “Happy Adoption Day” – This book uses beloved Sesame Street characters to teach kids that there are many ways for families to come together.
For parents, creating a storybook to pass down to their adopted child is an incredible way to capture and cherish memories from the beginning of your journey to parenthood. Whether you create your adoption storybook by yourself or with the help of friends, it will be a valuable tool to share with your community and future generations of adopted children.