Grownups’ Guide to Baby Carrot’s Growing Story
Why This Story Matters
This story reflects experiences common in fostering and adoption, told in a gentle and child-friendly way. Children may recognise parts of their own journey, feel a mix of emotions, or begin asking questions. These responses are opportunities for connection and support.
Understanding the Characters
Baby Carrot – The child navigating change and belonging
Birth Family – Represented with love and loss
Foster Carers – Provide safety and co-regulation
Adoptive Parents – Offer permanence and belonging
Professionals – Support planning and stability
Community – Represents wider support networks
Therapeutic Foundations
The story uses trauma-informed and attachment-aware approaches:
- Safety and predictability
- Emotional validation
- Gentle truth-telling
- Connection without blame
Using PACE
PACE stands for Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy.
This approach helps children feel safe and securely connected.
Creating a Safe Reading Experience
Before reading: choose a calm time and sit close
During reading: follow the child’s pace and pause if needed
After reading: offer reassurance and allow space for discussion
Supporting Emotional Understanding
- Name feelings
- Normalise mixed emotions
- Model calm emotional responses
Understanding “Roots”
Roots represent identity, connection, and belonging.
Encourage children to talk about people who help them feel safe.
Navigating Big Themes
Birth family: love can exist alongside separation
Loss: acknowledge emotions gently
Foster care: a safe place during transitions
Adoption: families grow in different ways
Co-Regulation
Stay calm, offer comfort, and help children feel safe.
Supporting Conversations
Use gentle prompts:
- What did you notice?
- I wonder how that felt?
When Children Don’t Respond
Some children process quietly or later. The story still supports them.
Key Messages
I am safe
I am cared for
My story is okay
I belong
A Reminder for Adults
You don’t need perfect answers. Being present, calm, and open is what matters most.
“I’m here with you.”