The adoption process is often overwhelming for a birth mother. Understanding your options and creating an adoption plan helps reduce some of the anxiety involved. At Adoption & Beyond, we care about everyone involved in the adoption process and want to make the experience as positive as possible for you, your baby, and the family you choose to become adoptive parents.
Here is what you should know about creating an adoption plan.
Working with a Coordinator
The first thing to know about adoption is that you are never alone. An Adoption & Beyond coordinator will work with you every step of the way to ensure you’re comfortable with the adoption process as it unfolds.
With no judgment and only positive energy, we guide you through the steps of adoption and stand by you as you develop the relationship you want with the prospective adoptive parents. This is your journey, and we respect your decisions – we are simply here to support you.
Searching for and Meeting the Adoptive Family
We know you want what’s best for your child, and part of that is choosing the right family. This means considering things like:
- Location
- Religion
- Education/profession
- Hobbies/interests
- Other children in the home
- Level of openness with you
Adoption & Beyond will also ensure that each applicant meets the extensive requirements to become adoptive parents. Such as a child abuse registry check, criminal record check, medical exams, financial review, and more.
Meeting the potential adoptive parents will give you a better idea of who they are and how your child might be raised. Many birth mothers feel an overwhelming sense of relief after meeting the prospective adoptive parents. It makes the decision process more real and provides a sense of familiarity.
Building the Perfect Hospital Plan
With the choice of adoptive parents taken care of, it’s time to develop a plan for your hospital visit. Who you want in the delivery room, who will care for your baby after delivery, and whether the adoptive family will be involved are all up to you.
Working closely with your adoption coordinator you receive guidance all the way through your adoption journey. Your hospital plan can be modified at any time with your comfort at the forefront of every decision.
Paperwork and Beyond
With a well-rounded adoption plan, you can move on to the adoption paperwork. This is sometimes confusing and another cause for anxiety in birth mothers. Again, your adoption coordinator is here to lean on. Your adoption attorney will help you understand all the terminology and fine print, so you know exactly what you’re signing before you sign it.
It’s important to know that your life will go on after adoption. Your adoption coordinator will continue to support you after the adoption, as you ease back into life.
For more information on adoption support, the adoption planning process and our not-for-profit services, contact Adoption & Beyond. We’re here for you.
Interested in learning more about Placing Your Child for Adoption in Kansas and Missouri? Check out our entire guide here.