Building Your Customized Adoption Plan
May 3, 2022Embarking on an adoption journey is a significant decision, and tailoring a plan that aligns with your comfort and desires is crucial. One of the primary considerations is determining the level of openness you prefer in the adoption process. At ABBA Adoption, we categorize openness into two main types:
- Open Adoption: This includes various degrees of openness, sometimes referred to as semi-open.
- Closed Adoption: No contact or exchange of information between birth and adoptive parents.
Understanding each type and its implications will help you make an informed decision that best suits you and your child.
OPEN ADOPTION
In an open adoption, birth parents and adoptive parents share information and maintain a level of communication concerning the child. The degree of openness is flexible and can be customized to your comfort level. Considerations for open adoption include:
- Initial Interactions:
- Meeting the adoptive parents.
- Participating in conference calls.
- Attending medical appointments together.
- Being present at the hospital during birth.
- Ongoing Communication:
- Exchanging emails and physical addresses for correspondence.
- Receiving regular updates, photos, and letters.
- Planning future visits and determining their frequency.
Open adoption fosters a collaborative relationship, allowing both parties to stay informed and share crucial information, such as medical histories. Some families choose to gather during special occasions like birthdays or holidays, crafting a plan that prioritizes the child’s best interests.
Your Adoption Specialist at ABBA Adoption will work closely with you to develop an openness plan that instills confidence and comfort, ensuring you have the support, tools, and resources needed throughout your adoption journey.
CLOSED ADOPTION
In a closed adoption, there is no contact between the birth mother and the adoptive family or child. However, essential information, such as medical and background details, is provided to the adoptive parents to ensure the child’s well-being.
Choosing a closed adoption means:
- No exchange of pictures, updates, or personal contact.
- Limited ability to provide future medical updates unless facilitated through the agency.
While closed adoptions are less common today, they remain a valid option for birth mothers who feel it’s the best decision for personal or protective reasons. At ABBA Adoption, we respect your choice and have protocols to accommodate future changes. For instance, adoptive parents are required to send quarterly updates during the first year, which we securely store should you decide to access them later.
MAKING YOUR DECISION
Remember, this is your adoption plan. Weigh the pros and cons of each type of openness and discuss them with our professional team of Adoption Specialists. ABBA Adoption is here to guide you, ensuring you have confidence in the openness plan you choose.
If you need more information before deciding on the adoption plan, contact ABBA Adoption for help!
At ABBA Adoption, we understand that the journey of adoption is deeply personal and unique for every individual. Whether you’re considering placing your child for adoption or looking to expand your family through adoption, our dedicated team is here to support and guide you every step of the way.
422 W Sevier St
Benton, AR 72015
501-776-2566