Adoption Stories: Interview with 5-Year-Old Adoptee

Many adult adoptees graciously share their adoption stories.

Many adult adoptees graciously share their adoption stories rich with deep emotion—both good and bad—stemming from being adopted. Trading adoption stories with these adults has made me look at parenting an adopted child a little differently. It has caused me to stop and think about how my kids will feel growing up.

My husband and I have always been very open about adoption with both of our kids. We never shy away from discussing their adoption stories. My daughter is now 5 years old and very verbal about her adoption, so I decided to interview her so that people can gain perspective on adoption from a child’s point of view. I was surprised by her responses since we have always explained adoption in clear terms and have never shied away from sharing her adoption story with her.

My daughter is usually a very outgoing child with plenty to say, but she seemed a little reserved when I started interviewing her. I purposely didn’t lead her in any specific direction with the questions (only restated as indicated) because I wanted her responses to be as honest and unbiased as possible to share with all of you.

What does it mean to be adopted?

I don’t know.

You are adopted so what does that mean?

I was in C’s belly. Then my parents got to keep me.

How do you feel about being adopted?

Good.

Who is C?

My birth mother.

Do you want to meet C one day?

Yes.

What would you like the other kids to know about adoption?

That I’m adopted too and it feels good.

What would you like to tell all the Mommy’s and Daddy’s who are thinking about adopting?

That kids are on their way forever.

Who do you like sharing your adoption story with?

Nana.

Do you know anyone else who is adopted?

Yes, my brother.

How did it feel to talk to your birth mother for the first time?

I liked talking to her. It felt good to talk to her since it is a little sad that I don’t get to see her.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell the readers about adoption?

A baby grows in another mommy’s tummy. Then parents adopt them.

Notes from interview: I should mention that recently our relationship with my daughter’s birth mother has changed from no contact to a phone call. For her response to what it feels like to be adopted, I would like to hear more and I am hoping she didn’t feel like she had to give the answer she did! Also, I really loved her openness in her response to speaking to her birth mother for the first time. Overall, I was really surprised that she didn’t have more to say and I actually thought she understood adoption a little better. My family and I will continue talking and learning together!