Strengthening School Belonging for Adopted and Looked After Children

Adopted and Looked After (ALA) children are more vulnerable to psychological and school-related challenges than their non-ALA peers, such as disconnectedness from teachers and challenges with peers. In this thought-provoking book, author Max Weinberg shares a practical four-part framework to help educators understand and support their ALA children as they work to nurture inclusive, supportive classrooms and schools. The framework is based on school belonging theory as well as on the reflections of educators who themselves were ALA. It covers four domains: Nurture ALA Student-Teacher Relationships, Design Meaningful Academics, Cultivate a Schoolwide Culture of Care, and Connect Learning to the World. Weinberg addresses a range of vital topics, including the huge umbrella that defines ALA students, developmental patterns and core issues of ALA children, and ways educators can create ALA-affirming classrooms and schools. He offers extensive examples, suggestions, and recommendations throughout. With this powerful book, you’ll feel empowered to eliminate barriers for ALA children, and to create an environment where they can truly thrive.