Why We Should Encourage Transracial Adoptions in MO

January 31, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why We Should Encourage Transracial Adoptions in MO

Adoption and other options for unplanned pregnancy remain controversial. Some of the controversies are from misconceptions, but much of it stems from other societal issues. Racism has always been a problem in America, and much progress has been made towards a more fair society. Sadly, the effects of past injustices remain today. Further progress means that we have to look within ourselves to see how we are being unfair to others, and often, we don’t realize there might be ingrained biases we are unaware of. If you are reading this, chances are, you care about equality and want to know what you can do. Encouraging transracial adoptions is one thing all people who have been involved can do when they interact with others. The idea of fairness means we treat people the same regardless of their background, and adoption is no exception. We at Adoption Choices of Missouri, want to provide you with the best possible care in your MO adoption journey, here are five reasons to support transracial adoptions, and it’s important to think about how they apply to you.

Family Love Is What’s Important
As a birth mother, choosing an adoptive family is the most important decision you will make in the adoption process. Fairness means picking based on merit. The adoptive family may not share the same ethnic background, but that doesn’t stop them from being a good fit. What makes them good is their willingness to do what it takes to give a child a happy life. A good adoptive family will learn the culture your child comes from. Meanwhile, you should learn about their culture. In today’s society, this will be a challenge, but it is also rewarding. Both you and them will learn about another culture and become more open-minded.
You Will Realize Some Hard Truths
It’s hard to put ourselves in the shoes of those who have different experiences. We all heard stories of what people in other ethnic groups deal with, but being affected by it firsthand is the real awakening. If you regularly interact with the adoptive family, both of you might be shocked to meet judgemental people and how to navigate uncomfortable situations.As your child grows older, they may even have an identity crisis. Discussing these matters with the potential adoptive family is important and will get them started. Nothing will completely prepare them, but it must be noted that transracial adoptions are increasingly common. Your child is not alone, and neither will their new family. There are many who will oppose a transracial adoption for different reasons. One example is that they might think that the child is being moved from their cultural roots, not fit in, or never develop a sense of identity. The truth is, a child automatically just fits in regardless if the child is the same or of a different race than the adoptive family. Getting the child to feel like they belong takes work on the adoptive family’s part. Ethnic differences will make this more challenging but not impossible. The problem minorities continue to face is that not enough people try to understand them. Being raised by parents of a different background does not mean they will grow up with low self-esteem. It is also not fair for a child to be denied a family because of race.
The Bad Experiences Are Fueled By Misjudgement
Poor judgment is often the cause of the bad experiences adopted children face. Adopted parents often think the best way of helping the child fit in is to pretend there is no difference or to insist those differences don’t matter. The reality is that all of us are human. As an intelligent person, your child will notice they are different at some point and develop a curiosity. Denying a difference can cause the child to internalize negative attitudes towards themselves. Getting them to appreciate their cultural background is key to building their self-esteem and dealing with the way others may treat them. Ignoring differences does nothing to prepare the child and make things harder for them. Of course, there are many other things to discuss with the child’s potential new parents aside from cultural differences. The overall philosophy the new family will have is important, and so is their ability to take care of their needs.

How Adoption Choices of Missouri Helps Birth Mothers With Transracial Adoptions

Adoption Choices of Missouri helps moms of different backgrounds get informed so that they can find the right family for their child. There are many things to consider when giving a baby up for adoption and knowing what to expect is the first step. When you are ready, give us a call, and we will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. Helping moms is our mission and passion.

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 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Seannea Wharton is a student at Miami University majoring in English. As of now, she is working on her first novel, starting a book blog, and learning American Sign Language. She was raised in a suburban town in New Jersey and has various hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crocheting. She enjoys learning about a wide range of topics and loves finding new books to read.

How Adoption Creates Transracial Families

January 28, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

How Adoption Creates Transracial Families

There are many different types of adoption, just like there are many different types of families. In some families, the child or children are being raised by an aunt or grandparent. In others, the child is being raised by a single parent. Transracial adoptions are becoming more and more prevalent. Transracial families can be formed from a transracial adoption, where the child’s race, culture, or ethnic background and their adoptive parents are different, we at Adoption Choices of Missouri are here to help you navigate all types of adoptions in MO.

What Should I Look for in an Adoptive Family?

As a birth mother, we realize that choosing an adoptive family for your child can be daunting, which is why we try our best to make the adoption process as easy as possible. You should not choose your child’s adoptive family based solely on race, culture, or ethnic background. Rather, you should be thinking about the kind of life you want your child to lead. Are the adoptive parents well off? Will your child have any siblings? Do the adoptive parents engage in friend groups that are culturally and racially diverse? Questions like these, and more, are what you should be thinking about when considering a transracial adoption. Ultimately, it does not matter what race your child’s adoptive parents are. What matters is that your child is loved unconditionally.

What are the Benefits of Transracial Adoption?

Transracial adoptions are beneficial to the adopted child and the adoptive parents. For example, your child will learn how to dismantle stereotypes early in life. People often assume that you have to be of the same race to be a family, but that is simply not true. Families come in all shapes and colors. Your child will learn not to judge other people and cultures while simultaneously embracing their own. The ability and opportunity to embrace diversity is another great benefit of transracial adoption. Your child will learn that diversity is something positive that should be celebrated. The world we live in is diverse, so raising a more accepting child can only serve to make the world a better place.

What are Some of the Challenges of Transracial Adoption?

Unfortunately, your child will face some challenges being in a transracial adoption. Racism is one of the chief challenges your child will encounter. People will assume their adoptive parents are not their parents or tease them for having parents who look differently from them. The best way to combat racism is to confront it directly. When you challenge something like racism, you challenge its validity and control over society. The one thing you cannot do when your child faces racism is to ignore it. Ignoring an issue does not make it go away.

There can also be a lack of diversity in a transracial adoption. Adoptive parents have to make a concerted effort to ensure that their adopted child is raised in a diverse environment. This can include raising your child in a diverse environment, attending diverse places of worship, and interacting with people who look like your child. Efforts such as these can help your child feel more accepted in society.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is Your #1 Source for All Things Adoption-Related

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we specialize in all types of adoptions. When you choose to put a child up for adoption, know that we will always be there for you. Transracial adoptions are not vastly different from other adoptions, they just require a bit more consideration and thought. We ensure that you are comfortable with the adoptive family you choose, and if not, we will provide you with more prospective adoptive family profiles. With offices all over Missouri, Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you navigate every step of the adoption process from start to finish. We have adoption facilitators available 24/7 to assist you. Call or text us today!

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 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Rayna Batiste is an alumna of the University of West Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing. Having graduated with honors, she hopes to attend graduate school at New York University, majoring in Journalism. Rayna is also a United States Air Force veteran who enjoys watching documentaries about pretty much any subject, learning, and spending quality time with her family and friends. She is also a fitness enthusiast and an avid Peloton user.
Her hobbies include brunch (yes, brunch is a hobby), fashion, makeup, and of course, reading and writing. Rayna has a real passion for the written word and correct grammar and syntax. She enjoys manipulating sentence structure and experimenting with punctuation in her writing. She’s what you would call a “werd nerd.” She was also recently featured at the Pensacola Museum of Art for her work, entitled Triangular Geometry.

Birth Mother Blog

Defining Transracial Adoption in MO

January 26, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Defining Transracial Adoption in MO

Suppose you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy but are afraid of considering adoption because of your child’s difficulties because of their identity. In that case, you can find solace in the fact that adoption is a process that you entirely control. You will be one to decide as to which family your child will live with, and you’ll be able to maintain contact with your child and their adoptive family if you wish.

Adoption in MO has been a growing option for many families across the US looking to create a bigger family or just start a family. As more people look to adoption as an option, transracial adoptions have also grown.

As a birth mother, it’s important to keep yourself informed of all the possibilities that could occur in your adoption process if you choose to pursue an adoption. This means you should consider the possibility of a transracial/interracial/multiracial adoption.

For help with adoption and pregnancy today, contact Adoption Choices of Missouri by calling or texting (816) 527-9800 or by filling out our online contact form. Our adoption specialists will be ready to help you make the best decisions for your adoption journey.

What is Transracial Adoption?

Transracial adoption, also known synonymously as interracial or multiracial adoption, is generally defined as when a family adopts a child of a different race. As mentioned earlier, adoptions in the US have been steadily increasing, which means transracial adoptions have also been increasing.

This shift in adoption dynamics means there are a lot of resources available to help you through your adoption journey. Your adoption specialist will also be able to help guide you so that you make the best decisions for your unique situation.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we work with domestic adoptions, which means that the adoptive family and the adopted child are from the same country. On the other side, there are international adoptions. As the name applies, this is when adoptive families adopt a child from another country. Both of these types of adoptions contribute to the growing number of interracial adoptions within the US.

Types of Adoption in Missouri

As a birth mother, you may be concerned about putting your child up for adoption because you fear they may lose some part of their culture or identity through adoption. This is a valid concern to have, but one of the ways you can alleviate stress about this is to consider the type of adoption you want. Each type of adoption depends on the level of communication you want.

If you want to maintain contact with your child and their adoptive family, you can choose to have an open adoption. Open adoption is where identifying information of both the adoptive family and birth mother is shared. Through this adoption, you can maintain aspects of your culture and help your child understand their identity.

If you wish to maintain contact but do not want to share identifying information, you can choose a semi-open adoption. The adoption agency typically facilitates communication between both parties in a semi-open adoption, but you can share aspects of your identity and culture through this type of adoption.

The last kind of adoption you can consider is a closed adoption. As the name implies, this type of adoption is where no identifying information is shared. This kind of adoption is a great option if you wish to remain anonymous. Through this kind of adoption, you can still maintain aspects of your race and identity because you’ll be able to choose the family you want your child to grow up with.

Benefits of Transracial Adoption

One of the benefits of transracial adoption is exposing yourself to a new culture, depending on the family you choose. Most waiting families are also ready to adopt a child that may not look like them, so you can be reassured that the family you choose will accept your child as they are with open, loving arms.

Another benefit to pursuing a transracial adoption is breaking down stigmas associated with transracial adoptions. The more people who choose transracial adoption, the more resources about transracial adoption will be available. In addition, it’s a great way to expose other people to the fact that transracial adoptions exist.

Ultimately, adoption is a choice to celebrate, whether it’s transracial or not. Adoption is a great way to create families and create lasting bonds between a child and their family.

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 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Victoria Chan is a sophomore at the Georgia Institute of Technology, and she is currently a Literature, Media, and Communications major. She currently runs her own blog, where she shares her poetry and creative writing projects. When she is not working or studying for school, she is often reading or writing, as she seeks to pursue a career in writing.

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2021 Adoption Tax Credit

January 24, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

2021 Adoption Tax Credit

The 2021 tax filing season is upon us! The Internal Revenue Service recommends taxpayers take time to determine if they are eligible for important tax credits. Many of our adoptive families will be applying for the Adoption Tax Credit. With that in mind, we have compiled some basic information about the 2021 adoption tax credit.

Adoption Tax Credit 101 – for 2021 adoptions (claimed in early 2022)

If you have done any research into adoption financing, you’ve probably heard about the Federal Adoption Tax Credit. But what exactly is this credit, and how does it work?

The Federal Adoption Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit that helps families offset the costs of qualifying adoption expenses. Families who paid qualifying adoption expenses in 2021, and owe taxes, may be eligible to benefit from this credit. For adoptions finalized in 2021, there is a federal adoption tax credit of up to $14,440 per child. The 2021 adoption tax credit is NOT refundable, which means taxpayers can only use the credit if they have federal income tax liability.

Parents who are adopting from the U.S. and claiming qualified adoption expenses can claim the credit the year of finalization or the year after they spent the funds. Parents who adopt a child with special needs and are not basing their request on expenses should claim the credit the year of finalization. Parents who adopt internationally cannot claim the credit until the year of finalization.

The credit applies one time for each adopted child and should be claimed when taxpayers file taxes for 2021.

To be eligible for the credit, parents must:

Have adopted a child other than a stepchild — A child must be either under 18 or be physically or mentally unable to take care of him or herself.
Be within the income limits — Income affects how much of the credit parents can claim. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of $223,410, and it’s completely phased out at $263,410 or more.

According to the IRS, “qualified adoption expenses” can include items like:

Reasonable and necessary adoption fees
Court costs and attorney fees
Traveling expenses related to adoption
Other expenses that are directly related to and for the principal purpose of the legal adoption of an eligible child

If you’re not sure whether you are eligible to use the adoption tax credit or if you paid qualifying adoption expenses in 2021, a tax professional will be able to provide more information.

How Much is the 2021 Adoption Tax Credit?

The amount families are eligible to receive from the Federal Adoption Tax Credit depends on a number of factors and will vary based on their unique situation. Families who finalize the adoption of a child with special needs in 2021 and fulfill the eligibility requirements above, can claim the full credit of $14,4400 whether or not they had any expenses.

Other adopters can claim a credit based on their qualified adoption expenses, which are the reasonable and necessary expenses paid to complete the adoption that have not been reimbursed by anyone else. If the expenses are less than $14,4400, the adopters claim only the amount of those expenses. However, if the expenses exceed $14,4400, the adopters can claim up to, but no more than, $14,4400, per child.

The Adoption Tax Credit limit is based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and is recalculated each year based on current cost of living. Income affects how much of the credit parents can claim. For the 2021 Adoption Tax Credit, families with a MAGI below $216,660 can claim full credit. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of $216,660, and it’s completely phased out at $256,660 or more.

Adoption and taxes can be complicated, and you will likely have questions about the tax benefits available in your specific situation. While we hope you find the information in this post helpful, keep in mind that Adoption Choices does not offer tax advice. Talk to a tax professional for more specific information about how the Adoption Tax Credit can benefit your family.

2022 Adoption Tax Credit – If you adopt a child in 2022, the credit maximum amount will be $14,890 with an AGI phaseout threshold of $223,410 to $263,410.

2020 Adoption Tax Credit – for the past tax year 2020, the maximum adoption credit was $14,300 per child with a phaseout range of $214,520 – $254,520.

Interaction with the Child Tax Credit

The Child Tax Credit changed in 2018. The amount is now $2,000 per child, but only $1,400 of it can become the refundable additional child tax credit (dependent on the family’s earned income), with the remaining $600 a non-refundable Child Tax Credit. This credit will supersede the adoption tax credit when reducing the tax liability.

To determine the amount of the Child Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit a family uses, a family must complete the Child Tax Credit Worksheet in IRS Publication 972. Software and tax preparers will automatically calculate these amounts.

Taxpayers who can answer “Yes” on the last line of the Child Tax Credit Worksheet may be eligible for the Additional Child Tax Credit, which is a refundable credit (meaning they can claim the credit regardless of their tax liability). To claim the Additional Child Tax Credit, parents must complete IRS Schedule 8812.

How Much Taxpayers Will Benefit

How much, if any, of the adoption tax credit a parent will receive depends on their federal income tax liability in 2020 (and the next five years). In one year, taxpayers can use as much of the credit as the full amount of their federal income tax liability, which is the amount on line 11 of the Form 1040 less certain other credits (see Child Tax Credit above). Even those who normally get a refund may still have tax liability and could get a larger refund with the adoption tax credit. Taxpayers have six years (the year they first claimed the credit plus five additional years) to use the credit.

People who do not have federal income tax liability will not benefit this year. We encourage them to claim the credit and carry it forward to future years since the credit may become refundable again in the future.

Claiming the Adoption Tax Credit

To claim the credit, taxpayers will complete a 2021 version of IRS Form 8839 (available at irs.gov in early 2022) and submit it with their Form 1040 when they file their 2021 taxes. Most tax software will create this form for you. Before filing, taxpayers should review 2021 Form 8839 instructions (will also be available at www.irs.gov) very carefully to be sure that they apply for the credit correctly and to see if anything has changed. The instructions are needed to calculate how much of the credit will be used.

When claiming the adoption tax credit, you’ll want to be ready with documents such as:

The final adoption decree
A placement agreement from an authorized agency
Court documents
A state’s determination for special-needs children, if applicable

This is a lot of information, and you probably have more questions about the tax credit for adopting a child in your specific situation. Adoption Choices does not offer tax advice and recommends that you talk to your tax professional for specific information on how the Adoption Tax Credit can benefit your family.

Birth Mother Blog

Can You Put Your Child Up For Adoption In The Military?

January 21, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Can You Put Your Child Up For Adoption In The Military?

Unplanned pregnancies can happen at any time. Suppose you are a woman who is actively serving or is planning to serve in the military and have recently discovered you are unexpectedly pregnant. In that case, you may be wondering what your options are. Pregnancy can be stressful and overwhelming, but having it be unplanned while being abroad and serving in the military or while being on active duty can add a lot more uncertainty. Adoption Choices of Missouri wants you to know if adoption is the route you feel is the best choice. You can still have complete control and receive support for making decisions in the adoption process.

The first thing to remember is that you still are allowed all of the same options and control over your pregnancy, as well as the adoption process. So even though the specifics for every adoption process are uniquely designed for each individual to fit their own obstacles, challenges, and desires, the process as a whole looks very similar and will be the same for women in the military.

Reach Out

The first step is always to reach out and get help and advice from professional resources. On our website, you will find a number and email to get in touch with representatives who can help you throughout the entire adoption process, from early pregnancy all the way to post-birth support. Finding out as much information as you can about the adoption process and all of the things to consider when deciding what you want is a crucial first step, but can also quickly become overwhelming, which leaves women often feeling pressured, stressed, and unsure of what to do. Reaching out to get professional help is the best way to ensure that you are getting the correct information and are on the right path to choosing the best adoption route for you and your baby. You can also read the tabs on our website, which provide information regarding what to do after immediately finding out you’re pregnant, how to make an adoption plan, different types of adoptions, choosing the right family, what to do when the baby arrives, and getting support after the baby is born.

Choose A Type of Adoption

After being paired with an adoption representative to help you create an adoption plan, the next step is to research and decide on what type of adoption you want. A common misconception with adoption is that you give the child away once you have the baby and never see the baby again. Many people don’t know that that’s one of many adoption routes to take. Suppose you feel that you do not want any contact with the baby or adoptive family in a closed adoption. In that case, you can remain anonymous and have no relationship with the baby or family at any point in the pregnancy and after giving birth. On the other hand, if you decide that you would like to establish a relationship with your baby and keep in contact with the adoptive family, you may go with open adoption. This way, the family knows who you are and is able to keep in contact with you after the baby is born. Relationships between the birth mother and adoptive family vary as some are very close and keep in touch often, whereas others work together to create set boundaries and times where the birth mother can see the baby.

Choose A Family

After choosing what type of adoption you feel most comfortable with, the next step is to choose an adoptive family. There are so many different types of women, men, or couples who are eagerly awaiting to adopt a child, each of them having their own individual reasons for giving your baby up for adoption, background, family scenarios, and more to definitely consider when choosing the family you want to place your child with. If you are opting for open adoption, this is a very important decision as you will be in contact and build some level of a relationship with the family as you still get to have updates, pictures, or even visits with the baby. You want to choose a family you feel comfortable with and feel will give your child the best life possible. This is a decision that requires a lot of thought and cannot be rushed. It can also be a very emotional decision as the adoption process starts to begin more real.

Have Support

Lastly, and very importantly, make sure you are setting yourself with a strong support system throughout and after the adoption process. While it may be the best decision for you, it can still be very emotional and draining. Pregnancy comes with a lot of hardships, and adding adoption into the mix can make things even more challenging. Having friends and family around you that are helpful, listen, non-judgemental, supportive, and considerate is very important. Adoption Choices of Missouri can also connect you with counseling to give you professional support during the process. You can also look on our website at blogs and testimonials to read about women who share similar experiences and their journey with adoption to feel less alone and more empowered in your decision.

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 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Allie Nowak is in her senior year of undergrad at Illinois State University studying public relations, with a minor in health & wellness coaching. She is extremely passionate about writing, digital content creating, and all things related to lifestyle & wellness. In her free time, she enjoys serving as editor-in-chief and publishing articles for her university’s chapter of Her Campus, the nation’s largest media platform for college women. You can also find her spending time with friends and family, traveling, reading, and walking her two golden doodles. She currently lives in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago where she was born and raised.

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Missouri Teen Pregnancy in Minors: Pregnant and Under 18

January 18, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Teen Pregnancy in Minors: Pregnant and Under 18

Experiencing an unplanned pregnancy as a teenager can be scary, but remember, you have options. At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we help young women like you make the best decision for you and your baby. An adoption is a great option if you are unsure of whether or not you would like to parent, and it can be mutually beneficial to you, your baby, and their adoptive parents.

Why Should I Choose Adoption as a Teen Birth Mother?

There are a number of reasons why birth mothers choose to give their baby up for adoption. Some of these reasons include but are not limited to

Lack of financial resources
Unsafe living environment
Not ready to be a parent for economic or emotional reasons
Wanting to give someone the gift of starting or expanding their own family

Whatever your reasons are for considering adoption, know that those reasons are valid.

How Can Adoption Choices of Missouri Help Me?

Adoption Choices of Missouri is a private adoption agency that specializes in Adoption in MO. We guide all of our birth mothers through the adoption process and ensure they are taken care of during and after pregnancy.

The first step of the adoption process is to contact us via phone or text. After you contact us, we will schedule an initial meeting with you. If you cannot come to us, we will come to you. You will complete any necessary paperwork at this meeting. Make sure to bring proof of pregnancy to this meeting.

Next, we will find you a prenatal doctor. We want to ensure that you and your baby receive the best medical care possible. It is imperative that you regularly attend your doctor’s appointments for your health and the health of your baby.

Once we ensure that you have adequate medical care, we will present you with prospective family profiles. You should be thinking about what kind of family you want to adopt your child and what kind of life you want him or her to lead. If you are unsatisfied with the initial profiles we provide you, we will provide you with more. We want you to feel comfortable picking an adoptive family so we do not rush you through the process.

The next step of the adoption process is to determine what kind of additional assistance you may need. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers financial assistance to all of its birth mothers. This financial assistance can pay for expenses like rent, food, transportation, phone service, and other maternity-related expenses. We do not want you to struggle during your pregnancy, so we offer this type of assistance. You should have to worry about your basic necessities during this difficult time in your life. You can receive financial assistance throughout the duration of your pregnancy and up to six weeks after you deliver your baby.

After we make sure that you have sufficient medical care, choose your child’s prospective adoptive family, and take care of your financial needs, it is then time to choose the type of adoption you would like. There are three main types of adoption: open, semi-open, and closed.

Open adoptions consist of open communication between you and the adoptive family. Both parties can exchange their contact information, including phone numbers, social media accounts, and emails. You will receive regular updates and photographs of your baby and be able to participate in annual visits with your child and their adoptive family. Your adoption specialist mediates Semi-open adoptions. All communication, photos, updates will be disseminated through your adoption specialist to you. There is no communication in a closed adoption. Closed adoptions are best if you value your privacy. The only information the adoptive family will receive about you is your medical history.

We also offer supportive counseling to all of our birth mothers. These sessions can be one-on-one, group, or a birth mother retreat. One-on-one counseling sessions allow you to express your feelings and concerns regarding adoption in a safe and secure environment. These sessions are 100% confidential and tailored to you and your needs. Group counseling sessions take place in a group setting and allow you to connect with other birth mothers. Birth mother retreats are similar to group counseling sessions, except that you get to retreat or go to a type of sanctuary, where you can remove yourself from your day-to-day life and really focus on your feelings surrounding adoption. These retreats foster a sense of community between you and the otter birth mothers.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is Here for You!

We know that being a teenager is hard enough without finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant. We do not judge at Adoption Choices of Missouri; we are only here to help. If you are a teen currently experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, do not hesitate to contact us. We will help you navigate every step of the adoption process. We have adoption agency offices all over the state. Contact Adoption Choices of Missouri today!

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 816-527-9800

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I Am Not Ready to Parent What Are My Unplanned Pregnancy Options?

January 17, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

I Am Not Ready to Parent What Are My Unplanned Pregnancy Options?

You have just found out you’re pregnant and are unsure of your next steps. If you are looking for Unplanned pregnancy options, you may be feeling terrified, alone, and overwhelmed. Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to ensure that no woman feels alone while navigating their options and feelings. If you don’t feel that terminating your pregnancy is the best personal option for you, but you know you are not ready to become a mother. Adoption is an option, and Adoption Choices of Missouri is ready to help you through the adoption process.

What Does Adoption Entail?

If you decide that adoption in MO is the choice for you or want to know more about it, our website offers questions, advice, blogs, and forums for every possible question you may have. If there’s a question that you can’t find that you want to be answered, you can always contact our representatives via phone call or email. They are happy to help. Adoption means that you are terminating your parental rights to your child and allowing someone else to claim full custody over them. Adopting is a great choice if you feel that you are not in a place mentally, physically, environmentally, or financially, or you just don’t feel that you are meant to be a mother. Adoption is not as simple as the media makes it out to be either. Every situation is unique and will be treated as such. In some cases, the birth mother may choose a closed adoption in which the adoptive family or child has no contact or information about her. In other cases, the birth mother may choose an open adoption, where she establishes an agreement with the adoptive family to have a relationship with the child and opportunities to see the child after they are born. Some women want to remain a part of their child’s lives, while other women don’t feel comfortable with that. Either choice is completely okay and is entirely up to the birth mother herself to decide. From there, the birth mother can decide what type of family she wants to place her child with.

Is It Bad To Put My Child Up For Adoption?

Absolutely not. Unfortunately, there are a lot of stigmas around women putting their children up for adoption. However, recognizing that you are not ready to be a mother or give your child quality of life, but want to give them that opportunity with another family, is a brave and mature decision to make. You are not a bad person, lazy, careless, or neglectful for deciding you are not ready to raise a child. When you choose to put a child up for adoption, you allow a family to make their family feel more whole, whether you are assisting an LGBTQ+ couple, a single parent, or a couple who has struggled to conceive. There is no shame to place your child up for adoption, and you also do not owe anyone an explanation as to why you felt it was the best choice for you.

What If I Need Support During My MO Adoption?

While adoption is a great option if you decide you are not ready to care for a child, it can still be a scary process to go through, especially if you’re on your own. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers support every step of the way. From finding out you’re pregnant, discussing adoption choices, choosing an adoptive family, counseling support, financial support, and after-birth support. While it’s also very helpful to lean on family, friends, and loved ones who show you unconditional support when looking for your unplanned pregnancy options. Our adoption specialists are ready to assist you with making complicated decisions that can help make things less overwhelming and make you feel more confident in your decision.

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 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Why Adoption is An Option For an Unplanned Pregnancy in Missouri

January 14, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why Adoption is An Option For an Unplanned Pregnancy in Missouri

As time goes on, life throws surprises at us, and unplanned pregnancies are among them. The difference between unplanned pregnancy and other unexpected events is that it involves a new human life. Parenting is the hardest thing anyone can do, and every expectant mother may not be at a point in their life where they are ready to do so. If that is the case for you, don’t feel alone because you are not the only one. There is a stigma among the options for an unplanned pregnancy, and adoption is no exception. The stigma is undeserved and scares people off from even considering adoption as an option. Stigma should not be a deciding factor in what you choose for your child. The most important thing is to give them the best life you can, whether you keep your child or place them for Adoption in MO.

The Unwarranted Stigma around the Adoption Process

Birth mothers are often portrayed as total messes needing to be cleaned up or desperate women trying to get her baby back. Choosing to give a baby up for adoption doesn’t mean you’ve fallen apart, and neither is it a choice of desperation. It is an emotional and hard choice, but it is done as an act of love to give a child a better life. Reasons for choosing adoption vary. Examples include:

Financial struggles.
Already having older children.
Finishing an education.
The desire to have the child raised in a two-parent household.

These birth mothers are not “giving up” on their child, but rather attempting to put them in a good family that can give what they can’t. No, the birth mother doesn’t run back later, demanding to get her child back because adoption is a legal process that terminates parental rights and gives them to adoptive parents. Additionally, birth parents often choose the adoptive family to know the new family is trustworthy.

When you tell your family you are considering adoption, you are likely going to get opposition. You are never going to please everyone, but communication is key to getting them to understand your position. Only you can know what’s best for your situation, so don’t let opposers hold you back.

Adoption is an Option that can Give Your Child a Better Life

Children obviously can’t raise themselves, so parents that love and care for them are what they need. If you are going through an unplanned pregnancy, it is possible your current situation is not favorable to raising a child. Some women may not want to parent. Or maybe you don’t have the resources to care for your child properly or may not be able to give them the attention they need. It is also possible that you don’t have a good support system.

Additionally, you will be giving someone the chance to have children who may otherwise not have been able to parent. In some cases, children may have special needs, and the birth parents may not afford the additional resources to do so well. Adoption isn’t the right choice for every unplanned pregnancy, so don’t rush your decision.

One of the hardest parts of adoption is parting ways with your child. This can cause feelings of loss in mothers, which is why adoption does not meet its media portrayals. Among these media portrayals are that the child does not know who their birth parents are as they grow up. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. In the past, all adoptions were closed. This meant that birth families and adoptive families had no contact after the adoption was finalized. Today, it is increasingly common for birth parents to continue communicating with their child. Of course, this will depend on the type of adoption you and the adoptive parents agree to. Because post-adoption agreements are not legally binding, it is important to make sure that you are on the same page. Talk to your caseworker to know what to consider when making arrangements with your adoptive family.

Adoption Choices of Missouri has helped moms in all kinds of situations. Don’t let adoption stigma stop you from making the best choice for your baby, whether it’s adoption or a different option. Our specialists will answer your questions and discuss your options when you are ready. There is no need to feel alone because you are not. Our adoption agencies in Missouri will be there to give you the support you need during this difficult time.

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 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Creating an Adoption Plan with Adoption Choices of Missouri

January 12, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Creating an Adoption Plan with Adoption Choices of Missouri

Unplanned pregnancies can be scary, which is why Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help. We provide you with a range of options so that you can make the best choice for you and your baby. We want you to make an informed decision in regards to creating an adoption plan without feeling rushed, judged, or overwhelmed.

What Are My Unplanned Pregnancy Options?

You have three main options when experiencing an unplanned pregnancy: termination, parenting, and adoption. Termination of pregnancy is legal in Missouri up to 22 weeks from the date of a woman’s last period. If you are not comfortable with terminating the pregnancy, parenting is a viable option. You may choose to parent your child if you have adequate financial and emotional resources. Finally, you can choose to place your baby for adoption. An adoption is a great option, and Adoption Choices of Missouri will guide you through the process.

What is an Adoption Plan, and How Do I Create One?

An adoption plan is your personalized plan for adoption; it includes everything from who you want to adopt your baby to the type of adoption you want. The first step of the Missouri adoption process is to contact us via phone or text. We will then schedule a meeting with you. At this meeting, you will complete all of the preliminary paperwork. We ask that you also bring proof of pregnancy. Once you have completed all of the necessary paperwork, we will begin matching you with a doctor.

One of the services we provide to all of our birth mothers is ensuring that they have adequate medical care. The health of you and your baby is paramount during this time. Therefore, you must regularly attend your doctor’s appointments and maintain a healthy lifestyle during this delicate time.

The next step of your adoption plan is to choose who will adopt your baby. We provide you with a range of prospective adoptive parents, and you choose the best one based on the kind of life you want your child to lead.

Adoption Choices of Missouri also provides financial assistance and supportive counseling to all its birth mothers. Financial assistance includes money for groceries, rent, transportation, and other maternity-related expenses. In addition to the financial assistance we provide, we also supply supportive counseling. Counseling is available to all of our birth mothers and can be a one-on-one, group, or birth mother retreat. The type of supportive counseling you choose is up to you and is based on your needs.

What Are the Different Types of Adoption?

You have options when it comes to choosing the type of adoption you want, too. The three main types of adoption are open, semi-open, and closed. Neither is better than the other; it just depends on your personal preference. There is open communication between you and the adoptive parents in an open adoption. You can exchange phone numbers, emails, and social media accounts if you wish. You can also participate in annual visits with the adoptive parents and your child. Your adoption facilitator mediates Semi-open adoptions. All photos and updates will be disseminated through your adoption facilitator; there is no direct contact between you and the adoptive parents in a semi-open adoption. Closed adoptions are best if you value your privacy. The only information your child and the adoptive family will receive about you is your medical history.

There are a variety of options when you choose adoption in MO for your baby. Our aim is to help you make the best, most informed decisions we possibly can. As a licensed adoption agency in Missouri, it is our job to help you navigate this journey.

Contact Adoption Choices of Missouri to Start Creating Your Adoption Plan Today!

We have offices all over the state to assist you with all of your adoption needs. Adoption Choices of Missouri is your best choice when it comes to choosing adoption for your baby. We take the time to get to know all of our birth mothers and provide them with the best possible care. Contact Adoption Choices of Missouri today. You’ll be glad you did!

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 816-527-9800

Birth Mother Blog

Talking to My Friends and Family About Adoption in MO

January 10, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Talking to My Friends and Family About Adoption in MO

Deciding to place your child up for adoption is difficult enough, now you have to explain your decision to friends and family. They will have questions, and you will have to answer them. The first step of this part of your adoption journey is to decide who you want to tell; you can tell as many or as few people as you would like. Our team at Adoption Choices of Missouri can help you navigate this process and simultaneously include your family and friends.

How Can I Involve My Family in the Adoption Process?

The short answer is yes, you can, but only as much as you want to. It can be helpful to have the extra support of your family and friends during this time. The first step would be to explain adoption and the process to your family and friends. Let them know that adoption has changed since its inception and is much more modern than they probably know.

You can also help them navigate the adoption process with you. One of the easiest ways you can do this is to allow them to help you choose your child’s adoptive family. Adoption Choices of Missouri assigns all of their birth mothers an adoption facilitator. Your adoption agency in Missouri will supply you with a range of prospective adoptive families. This part of the decision-making process can be overwhelming, which is why it can be helpful to have assistance from your family and friends. Your family and friends can help you decide on the type of parents you want your child to have and what kind of life you want them to lead. Making this a collaborative effort will alleviate some of your stress surrounding this part of the Missouri adoption process.

It may help explain the different types of adoption to your friends and family. Open, semi-open, and closed are the three most common types of adoption available. If you choose an open adoption, you and your friends and family will be able to receive regular updates about your baby. These updates can come in phone calls, photos, or visits. If your child’s adoptive parents allow it, maybe your family can participate in the visits. All communication is mediated by your adoption facilitator in a semi-open adoption, but you will still be able to receive periodic updates and photos. Unfortunately, there is no communication between you and the adoptive parents if you choose a closed adoption. It may be difficult for your family and friends to understand why you chose a closed adoption, but this decision is entirely up to you.

Open Communication Will Help You Navigate This Time

Communication is imperative during this time. Allow your friends and family to ask questions about the adoption process and why you choose adoption for you and your baby. Regardless of how they may personally feel about Adoption in MO, this decision is entirely your own. Remember, you do not have to tell them anything that makes you uncomfortable.

If your counseling sessions allow, maybe you can bring a close friend or family member to your sessions. This can allow them to get any of their questions answered by a professional. Check with your adoption facilitator first to see if this is even possible.

Allow Your Friends and Family to be Your Support System

One of the most beneficial aspects of involving your family and friends in your adoption process is you have a support system. Making the decision to place your baby up for adoption is difficult in and of itself; having a support system in place will lessen the burden. It can be helpful for you to express your fears and concerns regarding your adoption to people you already know.

As always, if you need help involving your friends and family in your decision to place your child for adoption, do not hesitate to direct them to Adoption Choices of Missouri. Our website and adoption facilitators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you or they may have.

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 816-527-9800

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