ADOPTION
Sometimes, life comes with unexpected twists and turns, often leading us to a fork in the road. You can choose what’s next.
You may not feel ready to raise a child, and that’s understandable. You will always be a mother, no matter what. Adoption is an opportunity to give your child a great future. It’s challenging but full of rewards, love, and unexpected people come along to help you.
OPEN ADOPTION
Open adoption is the most common type of adoption; it gives the birth mother a chance to be involved in her child’s life. The birth mom and the adoptive family have open communication and visitations based on agreement. You can choose where you place your baby, whether with friends, relatives, or someone else that you trust. An adoption agency can also help you find the adoptive family with you.
CLOSED ADOPTION
Closed adoption is less common but still an option for birth mothers. Some women are in a tough spot and would rather have closed communication with the adoptive family. In a closed adoption, no information or contact is shared between the birth parents and adoptive parents. The agency is also responsible for locating an adoptive family and handling all legal requirements.
SEMI-OPEN ADOPTION
A semi-open adoption is where interaction between birth parents and adoptive families is facilitated by a third party, either an adoption agency or an attorney. All identification of parties is kept private. Contact will often be via emails, phone calls, pictures, and letters. These are all mediated by the agency.
IS ADOPTION THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU?
Take the time to decide what adoption option makes sense for you and your way of life. Our team is here for you if you need support and someone to talk with.
REMEMBER:
Adoption is a significant decision with several important aspects to consider. Here are five key things to know about adoption:
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Adoption is a legal process governed by laws that vary by jurisdiction. It's crucial to understand the legal requirements and procedures involved in adoption. Work with reputable adoption agencies or legal professionals to ensure that the process is ethical and compliant with the law.
Types of Adoption: There are various types of adoption, including domestic adoption, international adoption, open adoption, and closed adoption. Each type has its own set of considerations, such as the age of the child, the level of contact with birth parents, and the legal and cultural implications.
Emotional and Financial Preparation: Adoption can be emotionally and financially demanding. It's essential to be prepared for the emotional challenges that may arise during the adoption process.
Home Study Process: Most adoption processes involve a home study, where a social worker assesses the prospective adoptive parents' suitability to adopt. This process typically includes interviews, background checks, and home visits.
Post-Adoption Support: Adoption is a lifelong process, and post-adoption support is essential. Be aware of available resources, support groups, and counseling services that can help families navigate challenges and ensure the well-being of both the child and the adoptive parents.
It's important to note that adoption is a unique and personal experience, and individual circumstances may vary. Seeking guidance from adoption professionals, support groups, and legal experts can provide personalized assistance based on your specific situation.