Everything listed here has been personally helpful to us during our UK adoption journey. I only recommend what I love and trust. Thank you for supporting this blog.
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Top Reads for Prospective Adopters & Adoptive Parents
Preparing As Adoptive Parents
No Matter What
Author: Sally Donovan
This was the first book I read during Stage 1, but honestly, you could read it at any point and it would still resonate deeply. It’s a powerful, honest memoir chronicling the author’s journey through adoption and therapeutic parenting- full of humour, heart, and healing.
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Therapeutic Parenting in a Nutshell
Author: Sarah Naish
I learned so much from this one. It’s exactly what it says on the cover- concise, accessible, and packed with insight. It offers a strong foundation in understanding the strategies and principles of therapeutic parenting, making it a great starting point.
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What to Expect When You’re Adopting
Author: Dr Ian Palmer
In my opinion, this one is best read before starting the process or during Stage 1. If you’re in Stage 2 or beyond, much of the content may already be familiar from training. Still, it’s a brilliant introduction, a compassionate and informative guide that covers everything from the emotional journey to the legal side of adoption in the UK.
View DetailsParenting With Connection In Mind
The A-Z of Therapeutic Parenting
Author: Sarah Naish
This is hands-down my favourite parenting book. It lives at the end of my bookshelf where I can grab it quickly! I think it works for all ages, I use it for my toddler. It’s a practical guide packed with go-to advice for everyday behavioural challenges in adoptive and foster families.
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The Connected Child
Authors: Dr. Karyn Purvis, Dr. David Cross & Wendy Lyons Sunshine
This was recommended during our Stage 1 training and has become a regular reference for me. Designed for adoptive and foster parents, it’s full of practical tools to help build trust and support healing for children who’ve experienced early trauma.
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The Whole-Brain Child
Authors: Dr. Dan Siegel & Dr. Tina Payne Bryson
Every parent should read this. It’s fantastic for understanding your child’s developing brain, and the scenarios and examples really helped me learn how to parent with compassion and calm, even during tricky moments.
View DetailsUnderstanding The Childs Experience
Related by Adoption
Author: Hedi Argent
I actually bought several copies of this and gave them to family members. It’s a thoughtful, reassuring read that beautifully explores what family really means and how bonds can grow beyond biology.
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The Blanket Bears
Author: Samuel Langley-Swain
A gentle, beautifully illustrated story that’s ideal for introducing life story work to toddlers. This picture book helps children understand their adoption story with warmth and love.
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We Made a Wish and You Came True
Author: Laura Cox
This was a gift from my husband’s colleagues and it’s such a treasure. It’s a gorgeous keepsake and journal with thoughtful prompts to help adoptive parents document their journey in a really meaningful way.
View DetailsHome Prep & Safety – What We Actually Used
Safety Essentials
Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate
Easy to open and close with one hand, this retractable gate was recommended during our health and safety visit. It’s been a great fit for our home setup.
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BABYGO Magnetic Safety Locks
I love these! They’re hidden, secure, and gave me real peace of mind- especially with Willow opening every cupboard door she can find. Also advised during our safety check.
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TV & Furniture Anti-Tip Straps
Everything- and I mean everything, had to be secured to the wall. Climbing is a form of regulation for some children, and this subtle, easy-to-use bracket did the job perfectly.
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BeeGo Door Lever Locks (2 Pack)
Simple to install with no drilling needed (yay for preserving nice doors!). They’re sturdy, easy to use, and recommended during our health and safety visit.
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Premium First Aid Kit – 220 Piece
Thankfully, we haven’t had to use this, but it’s comprehensive and well-stocked. I keep one in the home and one in the car, just in case.
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BabySecurity Electric Plug Socket Covers (2 Pack)
Quick and easy to fit, and definitely gave me peace of mind. Nothing’s getting into those plug holes, fingers included!
View DetailsComfort & Sleep
Tutti Bambini Modena Baby Cot Bed
This was the best-quality cot bed we found- sturdy, stylish, and easy to assemble. It’s a 3-in-1 option that grows with your child up to 6 years, and includes teething rails and an adjustable base.
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Sweet Dreamers – Ewan Deluxe Sleep Aid
If we ever lost Ewan, I’d buy another in a heartbeat! The deluxe version has a cry sensor, so when it turns off after 20 minutes, it can start up again if your little one wakes. A true game changer at bedtime.
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White & Brown Noise Machine
Our foster carer recommended this and it’s been brilliant, Willow is a light sleeper! We use it every nap and bedtime on the red light setting, and it’s still going strong.
View DetailsCreating A Calm Playful Space
Bubble Blower Whale
So much fun for sensory play. Just be warned, it makes a lot of bubbles! Best used outside. Willow absolutely loves it.
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Fisher-Price Smart Stages Chair
An interactive chair with lights, music, and three different settings. Willow usually gets bored of toys quickly, but not this one, it’s kept her engaged for ages!
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Jovicos Light-Up Bath Toys
These are very bright, cute, and perfect for sensory play at bathtime.
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Sensory Shape Sorter Cube
Another favourite of Willow’s, it has multiple sorting levels and is excellent for developing fine motor skills.
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Tonies Toniebox Musical Storybox
I was looking for a screen-free alternative and this was a total win. It’s calming, engaging, and perfect for travel too. One of the best things we’ve bought.
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BONNYCO Busy Board
So many learning opportunities in one place- numbers, colours, animals, and fasteners. It’s easy to vary the difficulty, which makes it great for both home and travel.
View DetailsLooking After Yourself
Clever Fox Self-Care Journal
I’ve always struggled with journaling, but this one made it feel easy and natural. The prompts are thoughtful and help you really reflect. It’s great quality with extras like a pen holder, stickers, and thick paper. I’d definitely buy it again.
A Little Tip on Journals I also started a blank journal at the beginning of transitions. Every day after seeing Willow, I’d jot down how the day went and how I felt, even if it was just one sentence. I still write in it now, and I know it’ll become a precious keepsake. Just in case I ever forget how amazing it felt getting to know my daughter. View Details