Surrogacy is an increasingly common path to parenthood, with more individuals and couples opting for this method to bring a child into their lives. However, surrogacy presents unique challenges and concerns for prospective parents, particularly when explaining the process to the children in their lives. This challenge is where books on surrogacy can provide invaluable aid.
Books have always been powerful tools for teaching complex subjects, especially for children. They provide a safe and controlled environment where children can explore topics at their own pace. Numerous research studies support the effectiveness of surrogacy books as an educational tool, showing that they can significantly enhance a child’s understanding of this complicated issue.
The surrogacy process can be confusing for adults to understand, so you may need help figuring out where to start when it comes to explaining the process to your children! The professional staff at Family Creations understands your dilemma, and we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of Amazon’s top 6 children’s books about surrogacy.
1. Sophia’s Broken Crayons: A Story of Surrogacy from a Young Child’s Perspective
Sophia’s Broken Crayons is a book on surrogacy recommended for children ages 2 to 6. The story is told from a young child’s perspective in a practical way that children can understand and grasp. Follow the story of Sophia as she learns about sharing and helping friends in need, why moms and dads choose surrogates to help grow their families, and why surrogates choose to assist other families that way.
2. Why I’m So Special: A Book About Surrogacy with Two Daddies
Why I’m So Special: A Book about Surrogacy with Two Daddies is a lighthearted children’s book explaining surrogacy for same-sex male parents. Regardless of sexual orientation, it’s a story all parents may want to share with their young children to let them know just how special they are. This surrogacy book is ultimately about hope, perseverance, and lots of love.
3. The Kangaroo Pouch: A book about surrogacy for young children
The Kangaroo Pouch introduces young children, ages 2-to-8, to surrogacy. The story is narrated by a young kangaroo named Oliver, whose mother has decided to help another family have a baby. Like many books on surrogacy, The Kangaroo Pouch is designed to act as a conversation starter and a “how-to” manual for children to refer to throughout the surrogacy journey. Child specialists have reviewed the book to ensure that it conveys age-appropriate messages.
4. The Very Kind Koala: A Surrogacy Story for Children
The Very Kind Koala is a charming children’s picture book explaining surrogacy that introduces the topic through the story of a koala bear and her husband who needed the help of a very kind koala to carry their baby in her pouch. Parents can begin reading this surrogacy book to children as young as three years of age to start the dialog about the helpful surrogate who will be giving birth to a new baby brother or sister.
5. Daddy Dog and Papi Panda’s Rainbow Family: It takes love to make a family
“It only takes love to make a family.” This children’s book about surrogacy is about forming a family, as same-sex parents create their family through adoption and surrogacy. The book presents the topic of a modern family in a simple, fun way geared towards children.
6. Wanted: A Journey to Surrogacy / Un viaje hacia la subrogacion
This children’s book on surrogacy is printed in English and Spanish and is ideal for bilingual families, ESL families, or families desiring to learn Spanish. With lovely illustrations, the story tells of a couple’s journey of having a baby and the many options they are presented with along the way. The story weaves reality with fantasy in a fun, colorful way that will inspire conversation and discussion.
Essential Points to Consider When Choosing Children’s Books Explaining Surrogacy
When choosing books about surrogacy for your child, age-appropriate language and images are crucial. Young children respond better to picture books with simple language, while older children prefer a more detailed narrative with characters and storylines that connect with their lives. If you’re uncertain about what would be age-appropriate for a particular child or children, your local public library is an excellent source of information. The librarian who oversees the children’s and young adult sections will be able to provide guidance and additional recommendations for books on surrogacy. In addition, public libraries are a great place to read and review books before purchasing them for your permanent home collection.
Finally, you’ll want to consider your family’s values and beliefs about surrogacy. Parents, family members, or friends who purchase books (especially if intended as a gift) are always advised to review the book carefully online or at their local bookstore or public library. The surrogacy books you select should align with the intended parents’ ideals while accurately portraying surrogacy. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from educators, therapists, librarians, and surrogacy professionals, as they can offer valuable insights.
Connect with Family Creations
Preparing children for the surrogacy process is as essential as preparing yourselves as parents. Books about surrogacy can empower your children with knowledge, foster empathy, and nurture an understanding of this life-giving process. Reading age-appropriate surrogacy books before bedtime or when gathered together for family time is a beautiful way to deepen your relationships. Your little ones will appreciate your honesty and openness as they welcome their new sibling into their hearts and homes.
When you have questions about books on surrogacy and the surrogacy process, help and resources are available through Family Creations. With over 15 years of experience in gestational surrogacy and egg donation, we have successfully navigated the family planning journey with many couples and individuals ready to create the family of their dreams. Contact us today to learn more.
Resources: All photos and descriptions of these books about surrogacy are from Amazon