On this page, you will find personal reviews on books I read about adoption, therapeutic parenting, trauma, ACEs and more – books that I read to educate and enlighten me, as well as to improve my skills as a parent. I might even return to some of the books I read during my preparation (Home Study) five years ago and reflect on how they served me in preparing me for adoption.
You might even find a few fiction books that have relevance to trauma or adoption or other challenges that seem to fit.
These are all my personal views.
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Improving Sensory Processing in Traumatized Children by Sarah Lloyd
In a line: Packed with practical ideas on how to improve balance, sensory awareness and movement in children who have experienced trauma. Tummy Time has dramatically improved Bubbles’ ability to sit on a chair.
A book that will change not only the way you look at your children (and how they move and feel) but has the potential to dramatically improve their balance, coordination, stability, sense of touch and more. I cannot recommend her work enough, it has changed our lives.
Read the full review here.
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Connective Parenting By Sarah Fisher
In a line: Genius simplicity in a quick-to-read book that will have your family reaping the benefits from the minute you pick it up.
I bought this book as an introduction to Non-Violent Resistance (NvR) as a few of the adoption twitterati had mentioned NvR as an approach to defiant or oppositional behaviour – something we are struggling to manage in Nibbles and – spoiler alert – I am glad I did.
Read the full review here.
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The A-Z of Therapeutic Parenting by Sarah Naish
In a line: A goldmine of information on almost any parenting challenge (from biting to stealing, chewing to transitions), such that it is rapidly becoming our Go-To book when things go a bit Pete Tong.
My favourite guide to the world of TP with tonnes of practical advice, useful processes and guidance that will have you nodding your head, feeling supported and relieved that finally someone has all the answers and they are now in your hands.
Highly recommended. Read the full review here
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Related by Adoption by Heidi Argent
In a line: If you want a quick-to-read book about UK adoption for your friends and family, then this book ticks (most of) the boxes
A short book designed for relatives of those adopting (although as an adopter, I recommend reading it for an eye-opening view on what your relatives are going through).
Short, easy to read, covers a lot of information, packed with quotes from adopters and relatives. Recommended. Read the full review here
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The Children Of Albion by Jill Turner
In a line: For a powerful insight into the lives of children from difficult backgrounds, including those who are taken into care, this book is a must-read.
This book is an engaging story that grabs you and drags you into an underworld. Where young children fight to survive for themselves. It is an eye-opening insight into the lives of very young people who have no-one to keep them safe.
A powerful, poignant story that will give you new compassion for the lives of young people from challenging backgrounds. Highly Recommended. Read the full review here
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The Deepest Well by Dr Nadine Burke Harris
In a line: A fascinating insight into how trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) impact the health and well-being of children and adults.
Part research, part medical mystery, part call to action, this book is a fascinating read uncovering how trauma and toxic stress affect the minds and bodies of young people, and the ripple effects of those experiences on young and old adults. Lots of data on the impact of ACEs, but lacks details on how to solve it (such that I was left frustrated).
Read the full review here.