Have you ever thought how your child (or your future child) will process their adoption story? It is something that all adoptive parents (or hopeful adoptive parents) should think about. As an adoptee and a mom of 6 through birth and adoption, Melissa Corkum shares her adoption story along with advice and resources to help us all be better parents. “I’m a mom to six kids by birth and adoption. They’ve taught me a lot about what creates thriving parent-child relationships…and what doesn’t.”—Melissa Corkum Melissa is a Certified Enneagram Coach and Empowered to Connect parent trainer. She’s helped dozens of parents shift to a brain-based view of behaviors so they can find more effective solutions besides threatening and punishing. Melissa is also the co-host of The Adoption Connection Podcast – so it’s fun to have another podcaster on the show :). As an adoptee with a mostly positive view of her story, Melissa is passionate about encouraging adoptive parents to feel confident in their roles and to follow their child’s lead when it comes to processing their stories. Listen as she shares her story and experiences as she and her husband spent three years in a constant power struggle and dying on all the wrong hills. It took almost losing their kids to get them to do something differently. Now, she has read all of the books and has gone to all of the training classes – so you don’t have to. Here’s what you’ll hear: * Melissa’s story as an adoptee and as a mom through adoption. * Learn what an Enneagram is and why it can help you navigate family dynamics and help you be a better parent to your child. * How and why it is important to help your children process their adoption story.  * Melissa’s biggest challenges and struggles with being a mom to 6 biological and adopted kids. * Find out what Melissa says is “the biggest misnomer in infant adoption.” * Find out how Melissa can you help you get the support you need. Links we talk about in this episode: * The Corkboard – Melissa’s home base where you’ll find wonderful resources and services about adoption, parenting and much more.* Free eBook: The Enneagram For Busy Parents – a great free guide written by Melissa so you can understand your child’s motivations, fears, and longings, so you can become a better parent. The Enneagram is a powerful tool for family growth that can actually simplify your life. Maybe you’ve never heard of it. Either way, grab this free book. You’ll be glad you did.* The Adoption Connection Podcast – hosted by Melissa and her friend Lisa (a birthmom and adoptive mom). Check it out – they’re great!*