3 Ways to Communicate in a Semi-Open Adoption

March 31, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

3 Ways to Communicate in a Semi-Open Adoption

If you are a birth mother in Missouri and have chosen to have a , you might be thinking about what your communication with your birth child will look like. What are the ways to communicate in semi-open adoption? This depends on your own situation, but there are a few communication options to choose from in a semi-open adoption.

The methods of communication in a semi-open adoption may be similar to that of an open adoption, however there is one major difference. The identity of both parties, you and the adoptive family, is not revealed to each other. Instead, a third party, such as Adoption Choices of Missouri or ChildConnect, facilitates all the communication. In this way, you can still see your birth child grow older, but you can maintain a sense of privacy as well.

Communicate with Your Birth Child through Email

One common way to communicate with your birth child post placement is through email. Sending emails can be a great way to share information or receive big life updates. Because it is so easy and quick, it can be a simple way to relay important news or smaller information.

If writing an email feels intimidating, try drafting a few versions before sending your final copy. Try and keep your birth child at the front of your mind as you write. Remember, this is not an outlet for you to work through any complicated emotions related to your adoption. Rather, it is a place for you to connect with your birth child in a healthy way. If you do need an adoption professional to talk to, Adoption Choices of Missouri provides counseling services before, during and post adoption.

Communicate with Your Birth Child by Sharing Photos

Another great way to communicate with your birth child in a semi-open adoption is by sharing important photos. Because you won’t be meeting with your birth child face to face, sharing photographs can provide a way to remain involved in all the growth he or she will experience.

You can also share photos from your own life as well. If you’d like your birth child to learn more about your extended family or the places you’ve visited, you can provide pictures. Remember to choose positive memories to share whenever possible. Your goal is to provide your birth child with an understanding of who you are and maintain a healthy and fulfilling connection.

Communicate with Your Birth Child via Letter

Writing letters can be a positive way to communicate with your birth child. While emails are a great option, a physical letter can hold a lot of meaning. It allows for the recipient to keep the letter, almost like a gift. A letter can also be a helpful way of expressing big emotions or thoughts that might be difficult to express otherwise.

If you’re not sure what to include in your letter, you can brainstorm different ideas in a list or make an outline before you begin. One of the great things about a letter is that you can always revise it until you feel it accurately captures all you’re hoping to share. While you’re brainstorming, you might think about expressing your feelings of love or affection for your birth child, updating them on important life events or telling a story from your past that will provide insight into your personality.

Begin Your Semi-Open Adoption Communication Plan

Taking some time to think about the different ways to communicate in a semi-open adoption can help you decide which are best for you. You can choose to communicate in all these ways or choose a few that feel best for you.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we will match you with an adoption caseworker who can walk you through the nuances of communication in a semi-open adoption. We understand the importance of keeping your information private while simultaneously creating a healthy connection with your birth child. Our goal is to make your semi-open adoption as comfortable and communicative as you’d like.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Molly Doyle is a native San Franciscan, Molly is an experienced educator and a dedicated writer. She holds her multiple subject teaching credential as well as her Masters of Arts in Teaching. When not teaching children or creating new written pieces, Molly can be found kicking around a soccer ball, going for urban hikes or whipping up a fruit pie.

She currently lives in Seattle, her first home outside of California.

Considering a Closed Adoption as a Birth Mother in Missouri

March 29, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Considering a Closed Adoption as a Birth Mother in Missouri

So, you have chosen to place your baby for adoption. This difficult decision, but one that will benefit both you and your baby. Now you have to decide which type of adoption is best for you: open, semi-open, or closed adoption. But how do you know which type of adoption best suits your needs? Are you a birth mother in Missouri who is considering a closed adoption?

Many birth mothers who choose a closed adoption do so because they desire a sense of closure. They feel that a closed adoption allows you to close this chapter of your life and move on after the adoption process is completed.

Who wouldn’t wish they could feel like they are concluding such a huge and emotional chapter of their lives? But be careful what you wish for. Just because you feel like a chapter in your life has ended does not necessarily mean that you will get to go live happily ever after. Wishing for closure can be a double-edged sword.

A sense of finality after a closed adoption can serve as both an advantage and disadvantage. There are many pros and cons to a closed adoption, and they are often the flip side to the same coin. That is why Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you. Our adoption caseworkers will help you decide which type of adoption works best for you and help you to make an adoption plan that works accordingly.

Pros of Considering a Closed Adoption as a Birth Mother:

Moving forward. No one wants painful reminders of the most difficult decisions of their lives, and for you it’s better to just wipe the slate clean and move on with your life. A closed adoption can help both you and the adoptive family move forward with your lives more quickly and easily by making a clean break.
Anonymity. In a world where so much of our lives ends up publicly shared on social media, it’s natural to crave some privacy and discretion around such a sensitive topic. It’s perfectly natural for you to want to keep this secret to yourself or entrusted with your closest loved ones. A closed adoption guarantees a certain level of obscurity in order to protect and conceal your identity.
No obligations. A closed adoption allows you to mentally, physically, and legally cut off all ties as a birth mother. You will have no future obligations to send letters or birthday cards, no commitments to call or visit on the holidays. Closed adoption offers the freedom to move forward in life without the responsibilities of parenthood weighing you down.
Happy and healthy baby. All of our adoptive families are pre-screened and qualified to adopt. Your baby will be going to a safe and nurturing home, whether or not you decide to select the adoptive parents from our adoptive parent portfolios yourself. It will be much easier to move forward having the peace of mind that knowing your baby is loved and well-cared-for brings.

Cons of Considering a Closed Adoption as a Birth Mother:

No medical, cultural, or genetic history. While there are many websites that offer a glimpse into one’s genealogy in exchange for a DNA swab, there are certain benefits to knowing who your birth mother is that a website just cannot provide. When the birth parent’s medical history or cultural traditions are not passed on, the baby may grow up unaware of certain health issues or lack a sense of their own cultural heritage.
Unanswered questions. The same sense of closure you seek offers a different sense of finality for your baby while he or she grows up. It may be difficult for your baby to grow up knowing that he or she was adopted but is unable to find answers. It is common for adopted children to have questions about who their birth mother is or why they were placed for adoption.
Emotional difficulties. Closed adoptions offer a lot of unique challenges for everyone in the adoption process. Not only can a closed adoption be difficult for you as the birth mother, but it may also present some future issues for the adoptive family or your baby. Babies placed in closed adoptions tend to face identity challenges as they grow older.
No contact, ever. As the years go by and both you and your baby grow older, you may one day find yourself wondering about your baby and wanting to reach out to him or her. Unfortunately, once you have chosen a closed adoption, it is very difficult to change course and establish contact later on. Not only is there no identifying information left behind in order to contact each other, but there will also be no foundation of trust on which to grow a real relationship.

Carefully Consider All Three Types of Adoption before Choosing a Closed Adoption

Of course, closed adoption is not for everyone. If any of the cons listed above make you feel upset or don’t sit right with you, then a closed adoption may not be the right option for you. In that case, a semi-open or open adoption may be more suited to your needs.

There are certain benefits of open and semi-open adoptions that are simply not available with closed adoptions. These adoption benefits would look like:

Being able to share any important aspects of your medical history.
Making sure that certain traditions are passed down.
Being able to leave an introduction letter that answers who you are and why you chose adoption.
Being able to address any emotional difficulties directly.
Being able to see and know the person your baby grows up to be.

Remember, there is never any shame in placing your baby for adoption. Whatever type of adoption you choose for whatever reasons, remember that choosing adoption is a kind and caring act of love in the best interests of you and your baby.

Do Not Wait to Contact Our Adoption Agency When Considering a Closed Adoption as a Birth Mother

If you’re considering a closed adoption as a birth mother, do not hesitate to call our adoption agency as soon as possible. The sooner you call us, the quicker your adoption specialist can get to work answering any questions you may have about closed adoptions.

No matter what type of adoption you choose, many birth mothers still encounter grief and despair over the loss of parenthood post placement. That is why Adoption Choices of Missouri is here for you. We are a licensed, full-service adoption agency that is more than happy to go above and beyond for our birth mothers. We offer mental health and support counseling services throughout your adoption plan, even after the adoption process is completed.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Kelly Felix is a graduate from the University of New Orleans. She holds a BA in English as well as a BA in Sociology. Her English concentration is in journalism, and her specialties in sociology are gender studies and environmental sociology.

When she isn’t voraciously guzzling coffee or devouring books, Kelly can be found either bent over a canvas working on her art or at her computer playing video games. She has hands-on classroom teaching experience from her time working as a substitute teacher for Kelly Services. Kelly also completed an in-house editorial internship at Pelican Publishing Company, and she finished the goal internship program at Green Light New Orleans. Kelly generally exists in a state of suspended disbelief, but when she’s not there she resides in New Orleans.

Birth Mother Blog

Is Making a Closed Adoption Plan the Right Decision for Me?

March 26, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Is Making a Closed Adoption Plan the Right Decision for Me?

Now that you’ve decided adoption is the best option for you and your baby, it’s time for you to create an adoption plan. If you are new to the adoption world and aren’t sure where to start, don’t worry. You’re in good hands! Your adoption caseworker will lead you through all the necessary steps and help you build an adoption plan that best fits your needs and wants for your adoption journey.

If privacy and anonymity is important to you when you place your baby up for adoption, making a closed adoption plan may be the best option for you. There are many other reasons why you may feel a closed adoption is the right choice, and that’s okay. Whatever your motivation or circumstances, your choice is valid and Adoption Choices of Missouri will respect your decision. We are here to provide you with unplanned pregnancy help and other assistance you need with your newborn adoption.

How could Making a Closed Adoption Plan be Beneficial?

Having a closed adoption plan can be beneficial for birth mothers for various reasons. For instance, her job may require her to choose a closed adoption plan to ensure not only her safety, but also the safety of her baby. Or, she may not want to be a parent and desires to move forward with her life without any contact with her child or the adoptive parent. These scenarios, along with many others, are valid.

Parenthood is not for everyone, and there is no shame in admitting that. If you are in a position where you are unable to or don’t want communication with your child, or the adoptive parents after the adoption has been finalized, making a closed adoption plan will give you that option.

What Makes a Closed Adoption Plan Work?

Within a closed adoption, neither the birth mother nor the adoptive parents know anything about each other. No identifying information is shared, and the adoption records are sealed after the adoption has been finalized. This means that the birth mother does not have the option of receiving updates or knowing how her child is doing post placement, and the adoptive parents have no access to the adoptee’s health or medical records.

A closed adoption allows birth mothers the freedom to place their child for adoption without any strings attached. It can give her peace of mind that her child will be cared for and the opportunity to healthfully move forward with her life.

What Happens Post Placement with a Closed Adoption Plan?

As a birth mother, finalizing an adoption plan can be scary and an emotional ordeal. Your adoption journey can bring about a mixture of feelings, and could ultimately leave you feeling stuck. This is why our adoption agency offers all our birth mothers free post-placement support.

While you are grieving, you may need extra comfort or assistance. Our adoption counselors are here to help you. All sessions are private, safe and nonjudgmental. Even if you know that closed adoption was the right choice for you and your child, it’s okay and natural to grieve before feeling strong enough to return to everyday life.

Can I Contact My Child with a Closed Adoption Plan?

Yes and no. When you are making your closed adoption plan, you will not have any contact whatsoever with the adoptive parents of your child. However, when your child turns 18 years old, their adoption records can become unsealed. This means that you may have the opportunity to communicate with your child, if he or she agrees to it. There is no guarantee that a meeting can be arranged, just as there is no guarantee that one cannot be scheduled.

Each and every adoption journey is different. Many adoptees are eager to learn about their heritage and origin. If your birth child is in this category, he or she may be willing to begin communication and build a relationship with you.

Should I Choose to Make a Closed Adoption Plan?

It’s important to remember that no one can make this decision but you. Every birth mother is going to be different and have her own reasons for why making a closed adoption plan is the best option for her and her child. You may feel confused about what you should do, but that’s why your adoption caseworker is here to help you.

Planning for the future in general can be a challenge. When you add an unplanned pregnancy and the adoption process into that, it can leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed about all your options. But you are not alone.The future of you and your child can be planned accordingly with the help of our adoption agency, Adoption Choices of Missouri. Making a closed adoption plan can bring you some closure to your situation and ease the stress of the adoption process.

Are you ready to begin your adoption journey?

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Ariel is a graduate from Southern New Hampshire University who has received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Poetry. Editor of Dear Black Girl by La’Daja Miller, Ariel aspires to be a successful author of her own book of Young Adult poetry. Ariel is currently a member of Sigma Tau Delta and The National Society of Leadership and Success. Both are honors societies that bring on prior or current students that have earned a GPA of 3.5 or higher during the course of their college career. Ariel was also on her school’s Dean’s List during the entirety of her college career and was an active member of her school’s Creative Writing and English Review Club.

As Ariel furthers into her pursuits, she finds time to focus on health and fitness. Being spiritual, Ariel believes that manifesting is the key to living a happy and abundant life.

Birth Mother Blog

3 Things to Consider When Choosing the Type of Adoption You Want in Your Adoption Plan

March 24, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

3 Things to Consider When Choosing the Type of Adoption You Want in Your Adoption Plan

Tackling big decisions in our lives can be difficult. More often than not, however, we already know the answers to the questions we are facing. It just takes some time and thought to uncover it. If you are a birth mother who is creating her adoption plan in Missouri, you’ll have some big choices to make.

One of the most important things you’ll do is choosing the type of adoption you want in your adoption plan. At Adoption Choices of Missouri, you will be matched with an adoption caseworker who can be your guide as you create your adoption plan. There are some helpful tips to consider when selecting the type of adoption you would like to have.

Become Familiar with the Different Types of Adoption

Before you make any sort of decision, you will want to become familiar with the different types of adoption available to you. There are three types of adoption to choose from — open, semi-open and closed. Each has its own set of benefits. Your adoption caseworker can educate you around the different types of adoption and answer any questions that come up. It is also helpful to remember that there is no right choice, only the one that best fits your life and situation.

Take Time to Think through Which Type of Adoption is Best for You

Because the right choice is the one that feels best for you and your baby, it is important to take some time to consider your options.Some birth mothers know right away which type of adoption they prefer. For others it may be a longer process. This decision process looks different for everyone.

It can be helpful to utilize the resources available to you as you decide which type of adoption you’d like to have. If you have friends or family that you can trust, talk through your feelings with them. You can also look to your adoption caseworker for support. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of making this emotional decision, Adoption Choices of Missouri offers counseling services to all birth mothers before, during and post adoption. Speaking to a professional can help alleviate any anxiety and put you in a good state of mind to make a decision.

Once You have Chosen the Type of Adoption You Want, Honor Your Decision

While you always have the option to alter portions of your adoption plan, it is more likely that you can avoid this if you have taken the time to think through each choice. At our adoption agency, we do understand that life can be unpredictable and our feelings can change. However, if you can avoid any last minute changes, it is recommended that you do so.

It is important to remember that you made your decision for a reason. After considerate time and thought, it was the best decision for you and your baby. Detailing your choice in your adoption plan can help remind you of why you chose a certain type of adoption. It can also help prevent the desire to change your mind based on any events that occur along your adoption path.

Create Your Adoption Plan Today

Education, time and thought will be helpful when choosing the type of adoption you want in your adoption plan. Don’t be afraid to ask for support when you need it, but trust yourself to make the best decision for you and your baby. Reach out to Adoption Choices of Missouri and we can help you get started with your adoption plan to ensure a comfortable and well-prepared adoption journey.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

She currently lives in Seattle, her first home outside of California.

Birth Mother Blog

Kate’s Story: A Birth Mother’s Perspective of Adoption

March 23, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Kate’s Story: A Birth Mother’s Perspective of Adoption

Katie’s Adoption Story

When Kate and her partner first discovered that she was pregnant, they knew that they weren’t ready to be parents. At the time, Kate did not know anything about adoption. Her only knowledge came from what she had seen on TV, where women who got pregnant out of wedlock would just move out of town and never talk about their pregnancy again.

However, after discovering she was pregnant, Kate talked with her grandmother, who happened to have a contact in the foster care system, and was able to provide her with information on adoption. In fact, the foster care worker had a brother and sister-in-law who were unable to have biological children. Kate was able to meet with the couple and decided that they could adopt her baby. While she wasn’t super excited about them, she knew her baby would be cared for and would have a large family.

Kate’s Journey to Healing

Kate notes that, at the time, adoption felt like her only option. She didn’t have anyone to advocate for her or explain the different types of adoption. “Knowing that we live five minutes away and that I have never received a picture or an update is really hard…” She said. “They probably never told him he was adopted.”

Furthermore, Kate admits that she dealt with her post-adoption emotions in a “very unhealthy manner.” That she became very self-destructive and disconnected after placing her baby for adoption. She felt as if she had to keep her adoption a secret and not talk about it. Thankfully, Kate has been in recovery since 2012 and has found healing through treatment and therapy.

Kate and Adoption Choices of Missouri

In addition to treatment and therapy, Kate has also found peace through working in the adoption field. She has now been the Executive Director of Adoption Choices of Missouri since January 2021, advocating for birth mothers daily, providing them with the information and resources that she wishes she had had when she placed her baby for adoption. She encourages birth mothers considering adoption by saying, “Find someone who will advocate for you. Find an adoptive family who is lined up with your belief and value system. This is your adoption plan — it’s ok to have a voice.”

Are you considering placing your baby for adoption but are worried or have questions? We are here to help! At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we have so many amazing staff members who are ready to advocate for you and your baby.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Grace Myers is a sophomore digital media major at North Greenville University. She loves writing and hopes to pursue a career in journalism or public relations after graduating.

An adoptee herself, Grace is passionate about writing for adoption. She especially loves hearing adoption stories and getting to know a variety of people.

Birth Mother Blog

What to Know When Making a Hospital Birth Plan as a Birth Mother in Missouri During COVID-19

March 22, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What to Know When Making a Hospital Birth Plan as a Birth Mother in Missouri During COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has seeped into every aspect of our lives for an entire year now. An unplanned pregnancy can be stressful and hectic enough as it is, but the pandemic adds a whole new level of stress into all of our lives on a daily basis. COVID-19 hovers over everything, from daily, mundane tasks like going out to eat or going grocery shopping, to looming over very special, once-in-a-lifetime events — like your due date!

With so much conflicting information still out there, it is hard to know what is supposedly safe and what isn’t. Sometimes it almost feels like states and businesses change their safety guidelines on a weekly basis. With all of these constantly changing rules, it can be difficult making an adoption plan during the COVID-19 pandemic. That is exactly why Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you navigate all of these new safety procedures while making your hospital birth plan as a birth mother in Missouri during COVID-19.

Please remember that safety measures and guidelines vary between each state, county, and hospital. Your adoption caseworker will help you to go over all of these new rules and plan your special day so that you can have the safest possible hospital birth plan for you and your baby.

The Top 4 Hospital Safety Procedures to Know when Making Your Hospital Birth Plan as a Birth Mother in Missouri During COVID-19

Symptom Screenings. Testing and screening still play major roles in slowing the spread of the virus. When you arrive at the hospital, you will be asked some questions and have your temperature taken to screen for whether or not you have COVID-19. Don’t worry, the hospital will still admit you whether or not you have coronavirus. This simply determines what wing of the hospital you will go to and what level of care you will receive. This is because pregnant women who have contracted coronavirus will need a much higher level of care and attention than a pregnant woman who has not.

Guest Limits. Of course, any guests or visitors you have will also be screened for symptoms when they arrive. Many hospitals will have guest limits and may only allow one visitor in your delivery room. But that doesn’t mean you can’t see all of your loved ones while you are in the hospital waiting for your delivery. Thanks to apps like ZOOM and FaceTime, you don’t have to choose between a parent or your partner. You can still see and speak with your family on your phone or tablet before you give birth in the hospital.

Vaccines. As of March 2021, almost all of the hospital staff should be vaccinated by now. This will help to greatly reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission within the hospital. The coronavirus vaccines are even available to pregnant women. Without a vaccine, being pregnant can increase your risk for hospitalization or complications due to COVID-19. Studies by the CDC and Harvard indicate that the vaccines are safe for pregnant women, but it is perfectly understandable if you do not want to receive the vaccine just yet while pregnant. Please keep in mind that there is always a risk of side effects with any vaccine, whether or not you are pregnant. For example, you may experience a low-grade fever or mild discomfort at the injection site.

PPE and Safety Standards. One thing has remained constant during the pandemic: as always, doctors and hospital staff are working tirelessly around the clock to ensure the safety of you and your baby. Doctors, nurses, and hospital staff have always had to deal with wearing masks and gloves while following sanitizing procedures. They are no strangers to wearing PPE, and they will continue to follow safety standards and take all of the precautions necessary in order to protect the health of you and your baby during the pandemic.

Don’t Wait to Contact Our Adoption Agency: Start Making Your Hospital Birth Plan as a Birth Mother in Missouri during COVID-19

The longer you wait to contact us, the less time you will have to begin making your pandemic hospital birth plan. It is only natural to worry over the details of your delivery plan for your big day, even during the best of times. Due to the coronavirus, there are all sorts of new rules and safety procedures set in place. That is why Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you make sure your birth plan follows these guidelines. We are following safety recommendations while still operating full-service for birth mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Benefits of Creating an Adoption Plan in Missouri

March 19, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Benefits of Creating an Adoption Plan in Missouri

When it comes to an unplanned pregnancy, it can get difficult in determining how to go about the future. If you are considering adoption, then Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you along your adoption journey.

Going through with an adoption is a big decision to make, which is why it is important for you to determine what you want. As a birth mother, you have many unplanned pregnancy options to choose from. The emotional toll that can come with making a decision like this is not easy, but it does not make you any less of a parent to your child. Putting your child up for adoption is not something that you should feel guilty or ashamed of. Our adoption caseworkers work closely with you to ensure you are making the best decisions.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, our team is here to assist in answering any questions that you have about creating an adoption plan. With the help of our adoption specialists and the other resources we can provide, we help birth mothers like you understand the different benefits of creating an adoption plan.

What are the Benefits of Creating an Adoption Plan?

Adoption plans can vary among each birth mother. No two adoption plans will be alike. Since an adoption plan likes to focus closely on which resources you will be needing, your adoption caseworker will work closely with you to help determine what you want and need throughout your adoption journey.

An Outline of What You can Expect during the Adoption Process

If you’re unfamiliar with the adoption world and have never placed a baby for adoption in Missouri before, beginning the adoption process can seem intimidating. However, this is where one of the first benefits of creating an adoption plan comes in.

Through an adoption plan, you can have an outline that tells you what you can expect from the adoption process. What steps are ahead of you, and the decisions you’ll need to make. This can greatly reduce your anxiety and trepidation. It can also help the adoption process seem like a scary unknown.

A Detailed Record of What You Want out of the Adoption Process

The adoption process is full of decisions you’ll need to make. It’s all too easy to become overwhelmed and forget what aspects you’ve already figured out. This can cause additional stress and frustration — especially as each decision you make in the adoption process can build on and intertwine with the next.

Yet, when you create an adoption plan, you can ease your anxiety and write down everything you want out of the adoption process. From what type of adoption you want to how involved you want to be with your child and adoptive parents after the adoption has been finalized. In doing this, you can establish a detailed record that will help remind you of past decisions and keep you on track with future ones.

Insight into What kind of Life You Want for Your Child

What life do you envision for your child? What opportunities would you like him or her to have? Is education important to you? The location where he or he grows up? What about the kind of adoptive family you’d like for them? Perhaps you’re not sure. Perhaps you’ve never considered this before. That’s okay.

Creating an adoption plan can help you with this. By writing down all the answers to these questions, you are establishing a clear image of how you’d like their life to look post adoption. This can reaffirm your choice in putting your child up for adoption, and help ensure that you are providing a brighter future for them.

Control Over Your Adoption Journey

An unplanned pregnancy is enough to catch any woman off guard. It can feel like your world has turned upside down. Like you are left with little option as to what to do.

But creating an adoption plan can change that. It allows you the freedom to make decisions based on what’s best for you and your child. Control over your adoption journey overall. This can give you peace of mind and help you feel like your life isn’t topsy turvy.

How can I Start Creating My Adoption Plan in Missouri?

We understand that you love and care for your child deeply. That you only want what’s best for them. That you want to ensure he or she is given their best chance at life. If you are feeling unsure about the benefits of creating an adoption plan, or how an adoption plan will impact you and your child’s adoption journey, we are here for you.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is a licensed adoption agency that works with birth mothers like you. Experiencing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up mixed feelings and emotions, but making an adoption plan can help you feel in control and less stressed. We are here to support and guide you, providing all the resources and information you need to ensure you have the most positive and empowering adoption experience possible.

Are you ready to get started on your adoption plan?

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

As Ariel furthers into her pursuits, she finds time to focus on health and fitness. Being spiritual, Ariel believes that manifesting is the key to living a happy and abundant life.

Birth Mother Blog

Adoption Agency Support in Missouri

March 18, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Adoption Agency Support in Missouri

In many of the things that we do, we often look for support from others. Having the right kind of support around us can lessen the burden of emotional decisions or ease the process of starting something new. In short, it makes us feel safe and secure.

If you are a birth mother in Missouri, you are likely making plans for your adoption journey. It is natural to be curious about the adoption agency support that Adoption Choices of Missouri has to offer.

We understand that there are a lot of costs associated with pregnancy. Our adoption agency can offer financial support on an as-needed basis. Your adoption caseworker will work with you to determine your eligibility. The wonderful news is that we offer financial assistance in a number of different ways.

Financial Support for Rent and Utilities during Your Adoption

Having a home with working utilities is necessary for a healthy and comfortable pregnancy. If you are having difficulties paying your bills, you can speak with your adoption caseworker to see if you are eligible for financial support in this area.

Paying rent and utility bills on time will ensure that some of your most basic needs are met, so that you are able to focus on caring for your child. Pregnancy is a long journey and requires a healthy amount of sleep and rest. We know how important it is to have a stable place to call home and will work hard to support you in this area.

Assistance with Groceries throughout Your Adoption Journey

Nutrition plays an important part in the development and health of your child. It is necessary to feed yourself enough food to keep you full and nourish your baby. Choosing whole, fresh foods that are high in nutrients will be your best option. If you don’t have the funds to reliably provide enough food for yourself during your pregnancy, you might be able to receive assistance with your grocery bills. Check in with your adoption caseworker to explore this option in detail.

Financial Assistance with Transportation Fees during Your Adoption Process

We understand that it may be necessary for you to travel during your unplanned pregnancy. You might need to commute to work or school. You will have frequent visits to the doctors to check on the health of you and your baby. Wherever you are going, we want to help you get there. If you need some help covering the costs of your transportation fees, please communicate that with your adoption caseworker.

Maternity Clothing throughout Your Pregnancy

As your body changes to make room for your baby, your clothes will need to change too. If you are eligible, we are happy to help cover the cost of new maternity clothes throughout your pregnancy. Finding clothes that fit properly will help keep you comfortable as your baby grows.

Do You Qualify for Adoption Agency Support in Missouri?

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we want to support you in as many ways as possible. We understand that this often includes providing financial support. We also know that your financial needs may change throughout your pregnancy and we can adjust our levels of support accordingly. Communicating any changes with your adoption caseworker will allow him or her to find you the help that you need.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

She currently lives in Seattle, her first home outside of California.

Birth Mother Blog

4 FAQs regarding an Adoption Plan in Missouri

March 17, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

4 FAQs regarding an Adoption Plan in Missouri

Asking questions about something can help you plan and prepare for it. As you embark upon your adoption journey as a birth mother in Missouri, you will need to create an adoption plan. This adoption plan will help you outline the details of each step in your adoption journey and ensure that you don’t encounter too many surprises along the way.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we understand the unique nature of each birth mother’s adoption journey. The adoption plan that you create will be as individual as you are. However, we do come across some frequently asked questions regarding an adoption plan in Missouri.

What is the Purpose of an Adoption Plan?

An adoption plan is put in place to help eliminate surprises during your adoption journey. There will be a lot of big decisions and emotional moments throughout your pregnancy and during delivery. Having an adoption plan can help you feel prepared for the future and comfortable in your choices. It also helps ensure that you are not making any larger decisions without taking adequate time to think them through.

What do I Include in My Adoption Plan?

Your adoption plan is an opportunity for you to arrange any details of your pregnancy and your adoption preferences. You can include information about the type of adoption that you would like to have, as well as any beliefs or values you want your child’s adoptive family to share.

You can also make preparations for your baby’s birth by including details about who you want in the delivery room with you, how you will get to the hospital and any items you’d like to bring along for comfort. If you want to hold your baby post-delivery, you can include that information in your adoption plan.

Do I have to Come Up with My Adoption Plan by Myself?

No, you don’t have to come up with your adoption plan alone. You will have the support of your adoption caseworker throughout the creation of your adoption plan. She can help you discuss your options and answer any questions that arise.

If you have trusted people in your life who are supportive of your decision to choose adoption, you can also turn to them for support. It can be helpful to get feedback or input from the people we love. However, make sure to listen to your heart and your own needs. If someone is suggesting something that doesn’t feel right for you, trust yourself and make your own decision.

Can I Make Changes to My Adoption Plan?

Yes! You are in control of your adoption journey. While your adoption caseworker will be there to guide you, all the big decisions will ultimately remain with you. If something that you included in your adoption plan no longer feels right, you can certainly alter it.

Before you make any big changes in your adoption plan, be sure to communicate with your adoption caseworker or a trusted friend. If you’d like to speak to an adoption professional, Adoption Choices of Missouri also provides access to counseling services through your pregnancy and post adoption. It can be helpful to discuss the reasons why you feel differently about an aspect of your adoption plan than you did when you created it.

What Questions do You have about an Adoption Plan in Missouri?

If you are feeling intimidated by the idea of creating an adoption plan, know that you have plenty of support! Our staff at Adoption Choices of Missouri is happy to help you answer any questions. Reach out to your adoption caseworker today to get the adoption process started. Remember, planning ahead ensures that you have as smooth an adoption journey as possible.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

She currently lives in Seattle, her first home outside of California.

Birth Mother Blog

Everything You Need to Know About Making a Semi-Open Adoption Plan as a Birth Mother

March 16, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Everything You Need to Know About Making a Semi-Open Adoption Plan as a Birth Mother

Now that you have chosen adoption as the right option for you, it is time to reach out to your adoption agency and begin making your adoption plan. The first step to making your adoption plan is selecting what type of adoption best suits you. Are you interested in an open, closed, or semi-open adoption? What type of adoption you choose decides how involved you will be in your baby’s life in the future.

The Different Types of Adoption Available for Birth Mothers in Missouri

In order to understand what a semi-open adoption is, first we have to know what open adoption and closed adoption each mean. Open adoption usually consists of staying in touch directly, via in-person visits and planned meetings that follow a set of predetermined guidelines you and the adoptive parents have agreed on. A closed adoption is when there is no contact beyond the baby’s birth and placement with the adoptive family. Semi-open adoption falls somewhere in the middle between open and closed adoption.

A semi-open adoption is when there is no identifying information shared, but you still maintain various forms of contact with your baby as he or she grows up. Due to its very nature, semi-open adoption typically consists of more nonverbal, written communication, like letters and emails. Usually this happens through third party mediation. At our adoption agency, we use a secure and confidential online portal called ChildConnect. This will allow you to communicate with your adoptive parents and receive updates about your child from a safe and protected distance. provided by your adoption agency. That is exactly why Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you with your semi-open adoption plan.

Top 3 Reasons Why a Semi-Open Adoption Plan may be Right for You as a Birth Mother

1. More privacy. Maybe your job or your life requires a certain level of anonymity. Maybe you are just a more private person. It is completely natural to want to maintain some discretion when placing your baby for adoption. Whatever the reason behind your desire for privacy, perhaps you still don’t want the complete loss of contact that comes with a closed adoption. That means that semi-open adoption may be right for you.

2. A sense of control. If you are the type of person who ignores a phone call in order to reply with a carefully constructed text instead, then a semi-open adoption may be a good fit for you. Not only does keeping contact limited to written communication help give you a sense of control, but it also allows you to take your time and decide what you want to say more thoughtfully. Birth mothers are always in control over how much future involvement they would like to participate in, but a semi-open adoption allows for a little more control when setting the ground rules of how much contact is or is not ok.

3. Less guilt or grief. No matter what, there is almost always some grief and guilt over the loss of parenthood after adoption. In fact, we even provide post-placement mental health and support counseling for birth mothers for this exact reason. Maybe you feel like an open adoption is too much of a painful reminder, but a closed adoption isn’t enough for you.

How to Get Started on Your Semi-Open Adoption Plan as a Birth Mother Today

After you have contacted our adoption agency and made an appointment with your adoption caseworker, please make sure to tell them that you are interested in a semi-open adoption plan as a birth mother. They will be able to provide you with some more basic information and answer any questions you may have more directly.

Another great way to get started preparing for your semi-open adoption plan is to practice writing an introductory letter to leave with your baby. This is a letter that basically introduces who you are and why you chose adoption. Once your baby is old enough to understand that he or she was adopted, they will have many personal questions that the adoptive family simply won’t have all the answers to.

An introductory letter is a great way to explain why adoption is the right choice for all of you and address any questions or concerns you think your baby will have one day. This is your chance to help him or her understand that this difficult decision was the best one possible, because it was a decision made out of love for their benefit and to provide them with the best opportunities in life.

An adoption plan also means a list of guidelines for future interactions. Think about the distant future, picture where you are five, ten, fifteen years from now. Do you want the possibility to eventually turn your semi-open adoption into a fully open adoption one day? Do you want to stick to only written communication through a mediator, or would you like to meet your baby once he or she is grown up? These are all different guidelines that you and your adoption caseworker can work into your semi-open adoption plan.

Let Our Adoption Agency Answer All of Your Questions about Making a Semi-Open Adoption Plan as a Birth Mother

Do you have more questions about semi-open adoption or making a semi-open adoption plan? Don’t wait or hesitate to call Adoption Choices of Missouri today so that your adoption specialist can get started answering all of your questions as quickly as possible. Don’t you want as much help and time available to plan everything and write your introductory letter? The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get to work helping you make your semi-open adoption plan.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800

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