The examples below are real narratives of waiting children and youth, with minor modifications. These narratives are positive, strengths-based, and descriptive.
Read more about writing children’s narratives in our guide, Creating Effective Narratives for Children Waiting to Be Adopted (1 MB PDF).
Creative, well-written narratives
Max
Great Scott! There’s a new superhero flying around the planet! It’s Marvelous Max! This caped crusader wants to save the world one day, and if he had his way, he would also strap a giant piggy bank to his back and drop money off to charities. Of course, that’s when he’s an adult. As a kid, Max just wants to tackle the heavens from the ground through a love of science. “Sometimes,” he says, “when it’s windy, I like to fly some kites. And sometimes I just like to relax, lay in the sun and look at the clouds.… Sometimes at night I like to look at the stars” … and perhaps wish upon one because Max wants a telescope one day, not to mention a forever family. “I would like to have a forever family who will provide me with a new home to live in and take me to Cosi!” Yes, this superhero/scientist might seem ordinary on the outside. After all, he likes listening to music and playing basketball and video games. But since when is saving the world “ordinary?”
What makes it great?
In addition to painting an entertaining picture, this narrative is effective because it includes:
- Quotes from the child
- Positive personality traits
- Interests, hobbies, and favorite pastimes
- School interests
- Dreams for the future
- How a family might be part of their life
Narratives for siblings
Antonio, Juan, and Ignacio
Antonio, Juan, and Ignacio are active and fun-loving children with charisma and hearts full of hope. Their sibling bond is strong, and they consider each other teammates. They look forward to being with each other and having a family who will support their dreams and passions. All three love sports, riding their bicycles, and listening to Tejano music. Antonio and Juan are the oldest and are protective of each other and their younger brother, Ignacio. Juan and Ignacio are quite outgoing—Juan likes to make jokes and Ignacio loves to chat with others. More reserved Antonio takes a little time to open up. These brothers are uniquely talented and are looking forward to sharing their love with their forever family
What makes it great?
This is an effective because it includes:
- Description of the siblings’ relationship
- Cultural connections
- Positive personality traits
- Interests, hobbies, and favorite pastimes
Narrative written by the young person
Rogelio
My name is Rogelio, and I am 19 years old. I am in high school and have plans to go to a local college upon graduation. My focus will be graphic design, and I hope to one day work for a gaming company in some capacity. I have varied interests—including woodworking, metalworking, art, history, and writing— that could also one day turn into a career. I am currently writing short stories with a goal of turning them into novels. I primarily write fantasy fiction, similar to Lord of the Rings or futuristic dystopian novels. In woodworking classes, I have made a keepsake box, a skateboard, and model houses.
On top of all of my possible career interests, I also have several hobbies. I love reading and re-reading The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings series. My favorite books to read are in the same genre I like to write— futuristic dystopian societies. I love being around and caring for animals and even worked at a pet store. I especially enjoyed working with injured and disabled dogs and was amazed by their abilities despite their challenges.
What makes it great?
This is an outstanding example because it includes:
- The youth’s voice
- How a family might be part of his life
- Important family connections
- Dreams for the future
- Interests, hobbies, and favorite pastimes, with details
- Strengths and positive personality traits
Note: It is better to include a child’s birth year, rather than age. Because this narrative is written in the youth’s voice, it made sense to reference his age.
Narratives for children or youth with significant needs
Lexi
Meet Lexi! If you want every day to start with a smile, there’s no doubt Lexi (born in 2005) will bring one to your face. She greets everyone with a big smile and has been described as one of the happiest children you will ever meet. Her spirit is like no other, and the rewards of her love and smiles will be endless. A very social girl, Lexi loves to interact with children and adults. Lexi loves to be talked to! Lexi likes playing with soft baby toys and chewing on them and rolls around on the floor to get to what she wants. She can amuse herself by playing with toys (her favorites are toys with music and lights). Watching TV and animated movies are also fun for Lexi.
Lexi likes going to school and being part of everyday life. She enjoys outings and going to church with her foster family. Lexi has overcome many obstacles in her life, and the special family for Lexi must be willing to learn how to meet her needs and be willing to accept a lifetime commitment. If you are that family, please don’t miss out on another minute without this wonderful girl! Lexi is the kind of child who will enrich your life forever.
What makes it great?
It doesn’t focus on what Lexi can’t do but instead focuses on her strengths and includes:
- Interests, hobbies, and favorite pastimes
- Positive information about how she interacts with others
- Strengths and positive personality traits
- Things that are important to her
- Accomplishments
- Appeal to family