Lilly's Blueprints: A (IVF) Donor Conception Story for Single Moms By Choice
My Donor Story: A Book Series for Donor-Conceived Children
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Lilly's mommy is an architect who designed a house in their neighborhood. On her first day of school, Lilly meets a boy with a new baby sister and learns about how babies come from mommies and daddies. Curious about her own origins, Lilly learns from her mommy that she is donor-conceived. Together, they explore the concept of donor conception and how it combines generosity and genetics to create a loving home. The book is designed for single moms by choice who have used their own egg and a sperm donor via IVF to have a child.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-7
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Lilly feel when she learned about her unique conception story?
Why do you think it's important for Lilly to know about her origins?
What makes a family? Are there different kinds of families?
How do you think Lilly's mom felt when she decided to have Lilly?
What would you do if you were in a similar situation as Lilly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation with a gentle explanation of IVF and donor conception to ensure your child understands the context of Lilly's story.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story, reinforcing that all questions and emotions are valid.
Highlight the diversity of family structures presented in the story and relate them to real-life examples that your child might recognize.
Emphasize the themes of love and intentionality in Lilly's family, discussing how love can be expressed in various forms.
Use Lilly's experience to discuss the significance of honesty and openness within a family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diverse family structures
Explanation: Lilly’s story introduces the concept of donor conception and being raised by a single mom by choice, expanding children's understanding of different ways families can be formed.
Real-World Application: Children will be better prepared to embrace and respect various family dynamics among their peers, promoting inclusivity and empathy.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for the role of science in family creation
Explanation: The book explains the IVF (in-vitro fertilization) process in a child-friendly way, showcasing how medical technology can aid in birthing children.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value scientific advancements and understand how they impact real lives, fostering a respect for medical and technological professions.
Example Lesson: The value of love and support in a family
Explanation: Through the supportive relationship between Lilly and her mom, the story emphasizes that love is what truly makes a family, regardless of its origins.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate the love and support in their own families and understand that affection is more significant than conventional family structures.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and asking questions
Explanation: Lilly is curious about her origins and is encouraged to ask questions, illustrating the importance of open communication within families.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to inquire freely and seek understanding of their own life stories or any topic of interest, promoting open dialogue in familial relationships.
Example Lesson: Self-identity and acceptance
Explanation: The protagonist, Lilly, learns about her unique conception story and gradually embraces her identity, illustrating self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace their own stories and backgrounds, boosting self-esteem and personal acceptance.