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Adoption Stories (Discovery Health Channel)

common sense media says

Heartwarming tales of how families are built.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this series includes frank discussions of infertility -- including having sex, timing sex to a woman's cycle, and reproductive organs -- so be prepared to answer questions about where babies come from. Birth parents are honest about their reasons for relinquishing their children; statements like "It's just not time for a kid" may require further explanation for young viewers. If you do tune in, you'll almost certainly be touched by the featured families' heartwarming stories.

Positive messages: The series celebrates the creation of families through adoption and offers a realistic view of the emotions tied to the process. A wide variety of adoptive parents is shown, from single parents to foster families and more.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Sexy stuff: Couples talk openly about fertility issues and the difficulties of getting pregnant, including the pressure of performing "sex on demand."
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Adoption Stories

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about what makes a family. Do families need to be biologically related to each other? You can also talk about your own family and how it was formed. Parents, share your stories of how you met each other. What made you fall in love? Did you always know you wanted a family? How did you feel when your kids were born? How have they changed your life? What are some of your favorite memories of your kids? Kids: What do you love about your family? What are some of your favorite things to do with your parents?

What's the story?

What's the story?
ADOPTION STORIES offers a look at the emotional ride of the adoption process, from awaiting a baby's birth to the frustrations of international red tape, and, ultimately, the joy of welcoming a new child. Each episode chronicles one family's story as the adoptive parents share their personal background with the cameras, talking about their jobs, hobbies, and reasons for pursuing adoption. When birth parents are included, they also share their thoughts on what's led them to give up their children -- and the hopes they have for the kids' future; viewers also learn about the kids, who are often in foster care or staying with relatives while they await their "forever families." In some cases, a baby's birth is shown, and emotions run high as a birth mother hands over a child to the adoptive parents. Later, in follow-up interviews, parents talk about how their children have changed and enriched their lives.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

You'll want a full box of tissues by your side for this heartwarming series, especially if you have first-hand experience with adoption. The show makes for good family watching, reminding viewers of all ages that families come in many different shapes and sizes. Just be prepared to field questions about where babies come from and why some birth parents give their kids up for adoption.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-G
Network: Discovery Health Channel
Cast: Elijah Runcorn, James Runcorn, Janyse Jaud
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: Discovery Health Channel
This review was written by Emily Ashby
 
 

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