efore their adoption. It is important therefore for it to be written in a simple and age-appropriate style and that the language and terms used are agreed with the prospective adopter before the book is handed over. For example, some prospective adopters use the term “tummy mummy” as a way of explaining to the child who their biological mother is, whereas other prospective adopters use different terms. The explanation of why the child was adopted should not include explicit or distressing details. This information needs to be given to the child at a time when they are emotionally able to cope and understand the information. Consideration should be given on whether the surname of the birth parents, family and others should be included in the life story book. 5.49. The child’s birth parents, family, foster carers and other people who know the child should be encouraged to be involved in putting together the contents. They may also be able to provide memorabilia significant to the child such as the child’s hospital birth wristband; soft toys, letters, and celebration cards; first drawings and paintings, and photographs of birth parents, siblings, family members and other people who are important to the child. Where appropriate, this memorabilia should be stored safely in a suitable box – a “memory box”. 5.50. The life story book and “memory box” should be co-ordinated by one person, preferably the child’s social worker, and given to the child and prospective adopter in stages. The first stage is at the second statutory review of the child’s placement with the prospective adopter. The completed life story book should be presented within ten working days of the adoption ceremony, i.e. the ceremony to celebrate the making of the adoption order. Later life letter: AAR 35 5.51.