What’s the difference between a profile book and an adoption storybook?

A profile book is the first impression a birth parent has of you, your values and the type of life you hope to give a child. Do you live in a big city? Do you spend summers in the mountains? Do you have pets? Who is your extended family (and friends) and what do they mean to you? This book is all about you and your unique part of the world.

An adoption storybook is for your adopted child. Studies show that it is best for the child to know they are adopted early on, and that they understand how their unique story has shaped where they came from, who they are, and how their family came to be.

Who reads an adoption profile book?

The birth mother, and sometimes the birth father, are typically the first people to view a profile book. Depending on their comfort level and relationship with their families and friends, they may share the adoption profile book with people that they trust. Remember, this isn’t just about one family gaining a child. It’s also about one family losing a child, and it’s important that extended family and loved ones are a part of the process if they can be.

What type of pictures should I use in an adoption profile book?

While you may feel the desire to hire a professional photographer - and some families do! - it’s important to show the real you. Some professional photos are completely fine, but the candid selfies at your favorite restaurant and the smiling faces during your last family holiday are also important and authentic parts of your story.

The photos in your adoption profile book should also include all of the people - and pets - that make your life complete. Don’t forget to include childhood photos, photos of your family, friends and the important people that will also be a part of your child’s life.

How honest should we be in our adoption profile book?

Birth families are not looking for the “perfect” family. They are looking for the family that is perfect for their child. What may seem like an imperfect reality (such as growing up in a single-parent home) may actually show how connected you are to that single parent, and how his important experience has shaped the type of parent you want to be.