If you are like many adoptive parents, you want to make a lifebook for your child. You really do, but you just can’t seem to get it done, or even get it started. Don’t feel bad. You’re not alone!
Let’s be honest ~ There will always be excuses to set your child’s lifebook project aside for ‘another day’. But, before you know it, another year has passed, and that box of photos, notes and documents is still tucked away in the closet…waiting.
Perhaps you are hesitant to make your child’s lifebook because you don’t want to say the wrong thing, aren’t sure what information to include or just can’t seem to find the right words to put to paper. “Writer’s block” looms large for many parents. Maybe trying to organize all of the documents, notes and pictures you’ve collected over the years into your child’s adoption story is too overwhelming. What if you don’t consider yourself creative enough to craft your child’s lifebook using the traditional scrapbook method?
Well, if a lack of creative talent, lack of confidence in your writing skills, or lack of time has put your child’s lifebook on hold for too long, maybe it’s time to get some help. I will try and provide some helpful advice and resources in my next few blogs... This month's tip...
Visit the Iowa Foster & Adoptive Parent website where you will find several lifebook pages that you can download and print for free. You can pick and choose individual pages best suited to your child’s adoption story or download the whole set of pages to make a complete lifebook (just use a three-hole punch and a three-ring binder to compile the pages). The pages are available in both English and Spanish. Some of the pages are perfect for “interviewing” your child so you can include his or her memories, thoughts and feelings in the lifebook. Older children can fill out the pages themselves, and draw their own illustrations.
Something important to remember ~ A lifebook does not have to be a fancy work of art! It needs to be a truthful, child-centered account of your son or daughter's adoption story. Good luck!
