Why Blushbottoms: The Belonging Bear Is for All Kids
When we first introduced Blushbottoms: The Belonging Bear, one of the first questions someone asked was, “Is this just for kids going through adoption?”
The short answer is: no.
While the story is rooted in themes of belonging and was inspired by my own adoption journey, Blushbottoms was never meant to be “just” an adoption story. Instead, it’s a book about what every child needs, regardless of their background: reassurance, hope, and the reminder that they are special just as they are.
Why Every Child Can Benefit
Universal feelings: Kids often feel left out, different, or unsure of where they fit in. Blushbottoms helps children recognize that those feelings are normal and that belonging isn’t about being “the same” as others, it’s about being valued for who you are.
Building self-worth: The story encourages children to see their uniqueness as a strength, which is a message that resonates whether a child is in foster care, adoption, a traditional family, or any other family structure.
Teaching empathy: By sharing Blushbottoms’ journey, children can begin to understand and empathize with experiences different from their own. This helps build compassion, acceptance, and kindness.
Safe conversations: Parents, teachers, and caregivers can use the story as a gentle way to start meaningful conversations about identity, family, and belonging in a way that feels accessible and age-appropriate.
More Than One Story
Although adoption is part of my story, and part of Blushbottoms’ story, the bigger message is that families are built in many ways, and no child must fit a “traditional” mold to feel loved or accepted. Every child deserves to be told they matter, they belong, and they are enough just as they are.
That’s why Blushbottoms: The Belonging Bear isn’t just an adoption story. It’s a belonging story. And belonging is something every child deserves.
Whether you’re reading this book to a preschooler at bedtime, a classroom of curious students, or a child navigating big life changes, Blushbottoms has something to offer: comfort, courage, and the reminder that love always finds a way.
Ways You Can Join the Belonging Journey
Read Together: Share Blushbottoms with your child, grandchild, or classroom and talk about what belonging means to them.
Start a Conversation: Use Blushbottoms’ story as a safe space to discuss feelings of difference, self-worth, and the many forms families can take.
Share Your Story: We’d love to hear how Blushbottoms has made an impact in your home, classroom, or community. Please leave a comment below or share your story with us so we can share it with others.
Spread the Word: If you believe in the message of belonging for all kids, consider gifting the book to a child, teacher, or library in your community.
