An introductions book is a powerful tool to help a child transition into their new home. It provides them with a glimpse into your family, home, and life while offering comfort and familiarity. Whether you’re preparing one for adoption or fostering, here’s how to make it truly special.
When deciding how to create your introductions book, you have two main options. A physical scrapbook allows you to use printed pictures and handwritten text, creating a personal, handmade feel. This tactile approach often feels more intimate and memorable. Alternatively, a digital scrapbook offers a polished look and the convenience of being easily reprinted. Digital versions can also be saved online, making it easy to recover if the book becomes damaged.
The front cover of your introductions book sets the tone, so make it warm and inviting. Choose a welcoming title such as *”Welcome to Our Family!”* and include a photo of the child to personalise it. Adding their name, like *”Welcome to Our Family, [Child’s Name]!”*, makes it even more special.
In the first section, “Our Family,” help the child begin to learn about the people they’ll live with. A friendly family photo, simple and clear, is a great starting point. Provide a brief introduction to each family member, for example, *”I’m Daddy, and I love baking bread and riding my bike.”* If you have pets, include photos of them as well, along with fun facts such as *”This is Max, our Jack Russell who loves belly rubs.”*
The second section, “Our Home,” gives the child a preview of where they’ll live. Begin with a clear photo of the outside of your house, accompanied by a welcoming caption like *”Hi [Child’s Name], this is where we’ll live together!”* Include photos of key rooms such as the living room, kitchen, garden, bathroom, and the child’s new bedroom. Describe each space in a warm and inviting way, for example, *”This is the kitchen where we start our day with breakfast. Daddy loves toast in the morning! We also make all our favourite meals here, like spaghetti Bolognese and roast dinners.”* For the bedroom, you might add, *”This is your new bedroom, where you can keep all your clothes and toys, and we can read bedtime stories together.”*
In the third section, “All the Special People in Our Family,” introduce close family members so the child can begin to familiarise themselves with the extended family. Include simple group photos and short descriptions, such as *”This is Nanny and Grandad. Nanny loves walking their dog Billie, and Grandad enjoys gardening.”*
The fourth section, “Fun Things We Love to Do,” highlights your hobbies and interests. Include photos of yourself doing activities you enjoy, such as baking, gardening, cycling, or playing sports. Add captions that describe how the child might join in, like *”This is Daddy riding his bike, and he can’t wait to ride with you!”*
The fifth section, “Our Adventures Together,” leaves space for the future. Add a few blank pages with a message like, *”These pages are for pictures of our adventures together.”* This shows the child that their story with you is just beginning and that you’re excited to create new memories together.
To make the introductions book truly meaningful, use the child’s name frequently throughout. If you’re planning to give them a special toy, introduce it early in the book and include photos of the toy in different rooms, such as sitting at the dinner table or tucked up in bed. Incorporating their favourite activities or foods—learned from their social worker or foster carer—can make the book feel even more personal. For sibling groups, consider creating identical books with slight personalisation for each child, ensuring everyone feels included while avoiding feelings of exclusion.
An introductions book is more than just a scrapbook; it’s a bridge to connection. It helps children feel welcome, valued, and loved in their new family. With care, creativity, and personal touches, your introductions book can set the tone for a beautiful new chapter.
Author: Shaun Houke
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