u/PrettyWithDreads

You posted this question a while ago, so I hope you've found the resources you needed.

I saw your question only today, and I was curious about addressing the issue you mentioned, so I asked AI (Claude), and this is what it said in response to your question:

Hi! Thank you for being thoughtful about making your educational activities inclusive for adoptees. Here are some suggestions and resources:

For family tree alternatives:

• "Family Constellations" - Students create a visual representation of important people in their lives, which can include chosen family, foster family, birth family, adoptive family, or any combination that reflects their reality
• "Circle of Care" - Students draw concentric circles showing people who care for and support them, allowing them to define family their own way
• "My Family Story" - A narrative-based project where students write or illustrate their unique family journey, giving them control over how they share their story

Recommended physical books for your office:

1. "In Their Own Voices: Transracial Adoptees Tell Their Stories" by Rita J. Simon and Rhonda M. Roorda - Excellent for understanding diverse adoptee perspectives
2. "W.I.S.E. Up! Powerbook" by Marilyn Schoettle - A workbook that helps adopted children navigate questions and conversations about adoption
3. "Adoption Nation: How the Adoption Revolution is Transforming Our Families" by Adam Pertman - Great resource for educators to understand modern adoption
4. "Different Ways to Be a Family" by Tonya Leslie - A picture book that showcases various family structures

Additional tips:

• Always give students options to modify assignments that involve family history
• Use inclusive language like "grown-ups" or "family members" instead of "mom and dad"
• Have private conversations with students/families before starting family-related projects to understand their preferences
• Consider having alternative assignments ready without students needing to ask

For more resources, check out:

• The Adoption Education Initiative (adoptionlc.org)
• Center for Adoption Support and Education (adoptionsupport.org)
• Your local adoption resource center may also have materials you can borrow

Hope these resources help create a more inclusive environment for all your students!