Books About Surrogacy to Read with Kids

Talking to kids about surrogacy doesn't have to be complicated—or awkward. In fact, there are many beautifully written children's books that help make these conversations natural, honest, and even joyful. Whether you're a surrogate, an intended parent, or simply someone in a child’s life looking to support their understanding of how families are built, books are one of the most powerful tools at your disposal.

In this article, we’ll walk through some of the best surrogacy-related books for children, grouped into two key categories: for surrogates and for parents. These books are more than bedtime stories—they’re conversation starters, validation tools, and bridges to deeper understanding.

For Surrogates

Books in this section are perfect for surrogates to read with their own children. They help explain the selfless and compassionate role of a surrogate mother in ways that kids can truly grasp.

Sophia's Broken Crayons

Written by Crystal Falk and Kimberly Kluger-Bell, Sophia’s Broken Crayons is a must-read for any surrogate mom looking to share her experience with her children. The story follows Sophia, a young girl who learns about her mom’s decision to carry a baby for someone else. It’s told from the perspective of the child, which makes it incredibly relatable and engaging for young readers.

The authors do an exceptional job of breaking down complex emotional territory into bite-sized, child-friendly lessons. The use of broken crayons as a metaphor for family creation is brilliant—simple, visual, and effective.

My Mom Is a Surrogate

This book by Abigail Glass is another essential. It’s direct, friendly, and designed specifically to help surrogates explain to their kids why Mom is helping another family grow. With cheerful illustrations and gentle storytelling, My Mom Is a Surrogate takes the mystery and confusion out of surrogacy and replaces it with pride and compassion.

What makes this book stand out is its focus on the family dynamics within the surrogate’s home—helping children process not just the “what” but also the “why.”

The Kangaroo Pouch

One of the earliest and most well-known children’s books on surrogacy, The Kangaroo Pouch by Sarah Phillips Pellet is designed for surrogates and their families. The pouch metaphor (a kangaroo carrying something for someone else) is clever and resonates with kids as young as three or four.

This story focuses on kindness, understanding, and the joy of helping others—all themes that align beautifully with the surrogacy journey.

My Magic Mom

Written by author Lori Shields, this book takes a slightly whimsical route, casting the surrogate mom as a kind of magical helper. It’s playful, lighthearted, and a great choice for very young children who need a simple narrative to follow.

What’s especially helpful about My Magic Mom is how it weaves the concept of surrogacy into everyday parenting language, making it easier for surrogates to talk to their own children about this incredible gift.

For Parents

Now let’s talk about books for intended parents to read with their children. Whether your child was born through surrogacy or you're preparing them for a new sibling’s arrival, these books help you explain their story in a way that honors the journey and reinforces love and connection.

The Very Kind Koala

Kimberly Kluger-Bell makes another appearance with The Very Kind Koala, this time targeting young children born through gestational surrogacy. Using a sweet animal-based narrative, the book gently introduces the concept of surrogacy and how a loving family is created with the help of a “kind koala.”

It’s ideal for families who used an egg donor and a surrogate, as the book emphasizes the teamwork involved in bringing a child into the world.

Midway through, it’s also a great moment to reference federal guidance around surrogacy law, parental rights, or legal family protections. For instance, intended parents may benefit from exploring https://www.childwelfare.gov for information about parental rights and adoption alternatives.

Why I'm So Special

Carla Lewis-Long’s Why I’m So Special is perfect for surro-born kids ages 3 to 7. The book doesn’t beat around the bush. It tells kids exactly how they came into the world and why it’s something to celebrate. It’s honest, empowering, and includes options for different family structures, including same-sex couples and single parents.

This is one of those books that grows with the child. The conversations it opens up become more layered as kids age and ask more nuanced questions about where they came from.

For parents who are navigating school enrollment or public benefits for surro-born children, the U.S. Department of Education’s site is a good resource to bookmark: https://www.ed.gov

From the Start

This gentle, heart-centered book by Stephanie Levich gives a poetic, loving overview of surrogacy from conception to birth. From the Start is written in rhyming verse and beautifully illustrated, ideal for bedtime or quiet time reading.

It’s designed to help children understand that they were loved and wanted from the very beginning—even before they were conceived. A message like that never gets old.

If parents want to dive deeper into family-building support, the National Institutes of Health provides reproductive health education at https://www.nichd.nih.gov.

Additionally, to better understand how surrogacy intersects with family planning policy, especially for LGBTQ+ families, you can look at resources from the U.S. Office of Population Affairs at https://opa.hhs.gov.

Conclusion

Surrogacy is a unique, beautiful journey—and kids deserve to know that their story is something to be proud of. Whether you're a surrogate explaining your role to your own children, or parents raising a child born through surrogacy, books are a safe, supportive way to begin and continue these important conversations.

Each title listed above brings compassion, clarity, and child-appropriate storytelling to the table. And as our understanding of family continues to evolve, these books help make sure the next generation grows up with openness, empathy, and a deep appreciation for all the ways love can build a home.

Reading with kids isn’t just about words on a page—it’s about connection. So pick a book, cozy up, and start telling your family’s story.