How Adoption Agencies in Missouri are Handling the Adoption Process During Covid-19

August 27, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

How Adoption Agencies in Missouri are Handling the Adoption Process During Covid-19

The news of an unplanned pregnancy is scary enough, but this news coming during a global pandemic is even more anxiety filling. We understand how you are feeling. This past year has been a scary time for many, but for birth mothers who can’t handle a child right now is scary. We know that many people have been furloughed this past year due to the pandemic, so we understand your worries about being able to afford your child, so adoption may be the best option for you during this time. It also just might not be the best time mentally for you due to how much the quarantined year has affected many people’s mental health. That is okay if you aren’t in a place to raise a child. Some potential adoptive parents would love to adopt your child. We are not stopping! We are still here for birth mothers like you. If you are unexpectedly pregnant/have an unplanned pregnancy and want to put your baby up for adoption in Missouri, we are still here 24/7 at Adoption Choices of Missouri. A global pandemic will not stop us from giving you the service that you need to begin the adoption process during COVID-19.

The Adoption Process is Still the Same in Missouri

You can still make an adoption plan with us here at Adoption Choices of Missouri. We will just be from afar through screens or six feet apart with masks on. Whichever way you feel more comfortable. If you become unexpectedly pregnant during the Covid-19 pandemic and decide adoption is the best choice for you, we are not stopping our services.

You will still be able to connect with an adoption professional, create an adoption plan filled with which type of adoption you want, go through the database of adoptive families and choose the best ones to raise your child, and create a hospital and delivery plan. Everything a part of your types of adoption is the same even during this global pandemic.

When connecting with the adoptive parents, you will be able to from afar, either from a zoom call to just a text. You will still have access to this communication, which we know is important to you. You will also still have communication with your adoptive caseworker whenever you need it. We know how important support is for you when you need unplanned pregnancy help.

You Will Still Get to Choose Your Delivery Plan as a Birth Mother

Your hospital experience may be different, but we will still be there through every step of the planning process of your delivery day. We know how important your delivery date is to you and we want you to have a smooth day. You can still deliver your baby at the hospital. The doctors and caretakers there will keep everything safe during your labor and delivery. It is still safe to be at a hospital to deliver your baby because the doctors are taking good care of their patients more than ever now to keep everyone safe, especially pregnant women.

You will still be able to choose exactly what you want for your delivery. If you want to have a natural birth, you can choose that, but if a c section is better for yourself and your body, you can choose that instead! This pandemic doesn’t restrict your choices as a pregnant woman and birth mother in Missouri. Unfortunately, visitors may be restricted to increase safety for the birth mother and the baby. This can include the birth father in some parts of the state. We completely understand how frustrating this seems because all you want is that support with you throughout the entire experience even if it’s just a friend. Ask your healthcare provider to see all of the hospital restrictions that are in effect at the time of your delivery. This could affect your entire delivery day in a good or bad way, so understanding the restrictions sooner than later could be in your best interest.

If you need us for support to talk about your frustrations or talk about your worries because of the hospital restrictions, we are here for you 24/7. Connect with one of our adoption caseworkers and find out what the best plan is for you and tell us how you are feeling.

Adoptive Family Traveling to Get Your Baby

You might be wondering how the adoptive family will get your baby after his or her birth. This is all based on being as safe as possible. Travel restrictions are high due to the pandemic, so if the adoptive parents don’t live locally, this could be challenging, but your adoption caseworker will make sure that everything is done safely.

Connect with an adoption caseworker and once you get to the step of choosing your child’s adoptive parents, the decision will be made safely then. Your adoption caseworker will make sure that everything works out even with all of the travel restrictions, especially if the adoptive parents live across the state and it would be easier for them to fly to you.

This could also be a struggle because you may want to meet the adoptive parents in person at the hospital before you give them your baby. Ask your adoption caseworker and he or she may be able to plan this with safety during the Covid-19 pandemic in mind. This may be different than you envisioned, but we will do everything to try and make it all work out. We want to give you everything you want during your adoption process.

We are Still Here in Missouri to Help with Your Adoption Process

We are still here 24/7 for you. We have not stopped our services because we know that birth mothers’ needs do not stop. We know that there is nothing more worrisome than support not being available to birth mothers like you who are going through a traumatic time. Contact us here at Adoption Choices of Missouri at any time and we will be right by your side during this 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 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Molly Allington is an aspiring author born and raised in Syracuse, New York. When she’s not watching her latest Netflix obsession, you can find her nose deep in a book or in her writing. She has been writing books since she was twelve and is in the process of trying to get her finished books published. Molly has a BA in Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University. With her writing, she is hoping to share supportive information and help as many people as possible. Once she starts her own family, she is wanting to adopt.

Is There a Time Limit For Choosing to Give My Baby Up For Adoption in MO?

August 26, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Is There a Time Limit For Choosing to Give My Baby Up For Adoption in MO?

When a birth mother has an unplanned pregnancy, her first thought is not always adoption. As a birth mother, you could be having thoughts of keeping your baby at the beginning of your pregnancy. Not every adoption story started with the choice of adoption right away. You could have a sudden change in thought. That is okay! You are not in any rush to decide that adoption is the best choice for you. It may take you a few weeks, even months, to make the decision to give your baby up for adoption in MO, for yourself and your child. You can start your adoption process at any time, at your own pace.

Here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, we want to be the support system you need. If you decide that adoption is the best option for you on day 20 or even week 20, we are here for you! Pregnancy, let alone an unplanned pregnancy, can cause so many emotions and just be very overwhelming for you. We are here for you 24/7 if you need anybody to talk to. Birth mothers are our main priority, and we don’t want you to feel alone because you are not alone.

You Just Found Out You Are Unexpectedly Pregnant

Finding out you have an unplanned pregnancy is scary. You didn’t see this coming, and you could be having so many worried thoughts. Do you keep the baby and raise them yourself, get an abortion, or give your baby up for adoption in MO? There are choices for you, but you may already have your mind made up about adoption in Missouri as soon as you hear the news.

This may be an ideal time to choose adoption, but it is okay if it isn’t for you! At this stage of the pregnancy, you are only 4-6 weeks, and you may have just officially found out after taking a pregnancy test. Choosing adoption at this point during your pregnancy, you can take the adoption process slow. You have almost nine months to figure out exactly what you want for your child.

Many birth mothers choose adoption right away due to many unforeseen circumstances in their life. This is an easy decision for many, but it’s okay if it’s not for you. That’s why we are here to be your support team and to help you figure out what you want for your life. Adoption is such a selfless and brave act, so we want to help birth mothers get exactly what they want.

I’m Halfway Through My Pregnancy, Can I Still Choose to Give My Baby for Adoption in MO?

If you are 4-5 months pregnant, at the halfway point, you can still choose adoption! You can make your decision on adoption any day of your pregnancy. You could have been going through your pregnancy for the first four months having the mindset of raising your baby, but then one day or over a period of a week or a month started thinking that that might not be the best idea for you.

At this point of the pregnancy, abortion may be out of the picture for you as well, in case you had that option among adoption in your head. You are 20-24 weeks pregnant at this stage, meaning that in many states, you can not have an abortion past 20 weeks unless you have a rare case for medical reasons that could harm you or the baby. If you are to this point and are physically well enough to give birth to your baby in the end, adoption may be the best choice for you if you don’t feel as if you can keep your child.

You are 7 Months Can You Still Give Your Baby for Adoption in MO?

When you are near the cusp of giving birth, you are probably getting ready to bring your baby home and already have some baby necessities, including clothes, toys, food, a crib, changing table, and anything else you could think of. But when you are starting to feel thoughts of doubt, you may not want to buy all of these products for your baby because you may feel as if giving your baby up for adoption is a better option for you and your baby. You may not even have any of the baby necessities yet, and this may be a sign that you have been having second thoughts for a while.

You can choose adoption when you are at this point of the pregnancy. It is okay if you don’t want to, or you feel as if you can’t raise your child as best you can. We know that you want to give them the life they deserve, which may be given to them by adoptive parents instead. Choosing adoption in Missouri at this point will give you about two months to go through the adoption process.

You can contact one of our adoption caseworkers at any time during your pregnancy. There is no specific time that you have to do so. It is all at your pace, and you can choose the best time for you to contact us. With two months until you meet your baby, you can choose adoption with us here at Adoption Choices of Missouri.

9 Months Pregnant and Choosing Adoption in MO

If you are one month away from meeting your baby and decide that this isn’t the best for your life, you can choose adoption! There is no time limit during your pregnancy. Although choosing adoption this late may rush the process. You will still be able to go through everything the same way you would have if you chose during the first month of your unplanned pregnancy.

You might be worried that you won’t have time to finish your Missouri adoption plan and find adoptive parents to adopt your child, but there are always so many couples who are wanting to adopt, so you have nothing to worry about. Your adoption caseworker whom you connect with will help you through the entire Missouri adoption process and help it move smoothly. We are prepared for any birth mother to contact us and choose adoption during any point of her pregnancy. We are prepared for your unique adoption plan to start, even if it needs to be complete within a month.

Connect With a Missouri Adoption Caseworker to See Your Options

If you are unexpectantly pregnant, no matter what day or week, and decide that adoption is the best for you and your baby, contact us! There is no time limit. We are here to help you through this hard decision because we don’t want you to be worried. We understand how anxious you may be feeling due to this unexpected pregnancy, but here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, we have great adoption caseworkers who have seen every kind of adoption process. We want to help you with yours.

We will be here for you whenever you decide that adoption could be the best choice for you. It doesn’t matter if you are four weeks pregnant or if you are 36 weeks pregnant. You can choose adoption with us anytime!

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

Giving My Baby Up for Adoption in MO. What’s the Adoption Process?

August 18, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Giving My Baby Up for Adoption in MO, What’s the Adoption Process?

Starting your adoption process in MO is an exciting but anxious time! As a birth mother, you get to choose your entire adoption process. This all starts with you choosing your private adoption agency, like Adoption Choices of Missouri. We are here through your entire adoption process.

We know how worrisome starting a Missouri adoption process can be. You are not alone. There are so many birth mothers who went through the same worries as you. Your feelings are valid.

How to Connect with a Missouri Adoption Caseworker

We are here 24/7 for birth mothers like you through both calls and texts. We also have an online chat that you can message us through, and you can speak to someone who will help you through the first steps of your adoption process in MO. Connecting with one of our adoption caseworkers is an important first step because it will get you right into the start of your adoption process.

Your adoption caseworker will see if you are interested in going through with adoption through our private agency here in Missouri. At this point, you and your adoption caseworker, also known as the birth parent counselor, will have a meeting to see exactly what you will need during your adoption process. You will have this counselor throughout the whole process. He or she can help you through your anxieties and everything that you may be feeling throughout your pregnancy and even your adoption.

You will complete the necessary paperwork to start your adoption process. This is all the legal paperwork you will need to sign to continue with the adoption process steps. During this signing, you will need to bring proof of pregnancy with you. You can get this from your OB/GYN at any point during your pregnancy, no matter how early.

You Can Pick Which Type of Adoption in MO You’d Like

As the birth mother, you choose everything in your adoption process. One of these choices is choosing which type of adoption you want. This is a big decision because this affects you and your baby well after he or she is given to the adoptive parents after birth. This decision gives you the choice of the amount of communication and privacy. This all will be negotiated between you and your child’s adoptive parents. These three types of adoption are open, semi-open, or closed, each having its own amount of communication and privacy.

Open adoption allows open communication with your child and the adoptive parents. Identifying information will be shared in this type because it is as the name alludes: open. There is little privacy when it comes to this type, but negotiation can always change it to be whatever you and the adoptive parents want. Through open adoption, there can be communication that can include phone calls, texts filled with pictures and videos, written letters, and maybe the occasional visit, if everyone in the party wants that.

Semi-open adoption is very similar to open adoption, but the communication decreases, and the privacy increases. This communication may just update every month or every other month of your child from the adoptive parents. You will still get to see your child grow up through pictures in this type of adoption, but it won’t be as much as open adoption would allow. This is a great choice for you if you still want to stay in touch with your child and the adoptive parents but want more privacy and less communication.

Closed adoption is a great type of adoption if you want to try and move on from your adoption process. This type of adoption has no communication and is full of privacy. This type doesn’t allow you any future communication with your child and the adoptive parents. This may be very hard to choose when it comes down to it, but if it’s the right decision for you, that is okay!

Choose Adoptive Parents Through Our MO Adoption Agency

This is a very exciting part of the adoption process because you will review family profiles with your birth parent counselor. In this part of the adoption process, you will pick the best family for your child. Choosing the adoptive parents is a huge decision because they will be the ones you are giving your baby up for adoption to, and they will be the ones raising your child as their own.

You get to choose the adoptive parents based on all sorts of characteristics and personalities. This can be from if they are single or married to what their career is. You can even have a conference call or maybe even a visit with the adoptive parents if you choose. This could seal or break your decision, but this is an important decision.

You Get to Plan Your Hospital and Delivery Plan to Finish the Adoption Process

The day your baby is born is one of the most important days not only for your life but also for the adoptive parents. Although this isn’t a life that you thought you’d be living with an unplanned pregnancy, it turned into something beautiful and gives the adoptive parents a chance to have a child to raise as their own.

You get to choose how your child’s birth date will go. You get to choose the hospital you will deliver your baby at, if you meet the adoptive parents before giving your baby to them, and how everything will go on your child’s birth date.

Your child’s birth is a very important date, and this day will change your life and the adoptive parents’ lives forever. This is the day you will meet your child, and the day you will give your child away for adoption officially. Your birth parent counselor will be there with you at the hospital as an advocate.

Post-Placement After an Unplanned Pregnancy

Your post-placement plan can include the agreed-upon communication between you, your child, and the adoptive parents. It can also include post-placement counseling. It’s okay to ask for help. Birth mothers do not have an easy journey, no matter if their birth parent counselor is by their side the entire time. Having an unexpected pregnancy and going through adoption is traumatic. It is a lot for someone to go through, so if you need help, that is okay! It is valid to ask for help. We want you to have the best care and support during, and after the adoption process, so we have this option for you.

You and the adoptive family may agree upon post-placement communication, which will vary and, at a minimum, include pictures and letters via a web-based program. This may be your post-placement plan, but it is the best for you and your life whatever you choose.

Are You Ready to Start Your Adoption Process in MO as a Birth Mother?

No matter what time of your pregnancy, you can contact us here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, and we will connect you with an adoption professional who will help you figure out exactly what you want for your adoption process.

Adoption is a huge decision and is very important, so we understand being anxious and not knowing how or where to start. That’s what we are here for! We want to help you, a birth mother, through everything, including your pregnancy and adoption in Missouri. We’ve seen so many adoption processes and want to help you through your unique adoption process as well.

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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Birth Mothers and the Missouri Adoption Triad

May 3, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Birth Mothers and the Missouri Adoption Triad

The relationships in our lives help shape us into who we are today. It is through these bonds that we learn fundamental life lessons and grow into our own identities. When it comes tobirth mothers and the Missouri adoption triad, the connections between each party can look many different ways.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, our goal is to support you through each step of your adoption journey. This includes providing you assistance as you navigate the waters of relationship-building and communication within your adoption.

What is an Adoption Triad?

An adoption triad refers to the groups of people that are directly involved in an adoption: the birth mother, the adoptive family and the adoptee. If you think about your adoption as a narrative, these are your three main characters. No matter which type of adoption you choose, each of these groups will have a lasting impact on the others.

Relationships between Birth Mothers and Adoptees

To you, the adoptee is your birth child and you are their birth mother. Depending on the type of adoption you choose to have, your relationship with your birth child may look many different ways.

For example, should you decide on an open adoption, you and your child will remain connected through varied forms of communication. These can include letters, emails and in person meetings. Your child will grow up with a strong understanding of who you are and will be able to ask any questions that might arise as they grow older.

If you choose to have a semi-open or a closed adoption, you may not remain in touch with your child. While this means that you will have a different relationship with them than in an open adoption, it doesn’t mean that you are not connected. Your child will still be a part of your life story, a connecting piece in the adoption triad.

Relationships between Birth Mothers and Adoptive Families

Relationships between birth mothers and their child’s adoptive families, both pieces of the adoption triad, are unique to their situation. A large factor in determining the type of relationship you will have with your child’s adoptive family is what type of adoption you select.

In an open adoption, you and your child’s adoptive family will decide on what kind of communication feels best for you. You can keep in touch only to arrange meetings and communication with your child, or you might choose to be more involved with each other. It is up to both parties to discuss what feels right.

In a semi-open or closed adoption, you likely won’t have an ongoing relationship with your child’s adoptive family. While you will still have the option of selecting your child’s adoptive family, you won’t be building a relationship with them post placement.

Relationships between Adoptive Families and Adoptees

The relationship between adoptive families and adoptees, two pieces of the adoption triad, is the one that remains similar despite the type of adoption you choose. The adoptive family becomes the legal guardians of the adoptee as soon as all the documents are signed.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we have an extensive collection of portfolios for potential adoptive families. You will be able to browse through these before you select the right match for your child. No matter your choice, it is helpful to remember that adoptive families and adoptees are just loving families. Adoptive families care and love for their children just as any family would.

Build Your Missouri Adoption Triad

In order to form your own adoption triad, you will need to select an adoptive family. Our adoption agency will pair you with an adoption specialist who can help you through this part of your journey. Remember, there is not only one path forbirth mothers and the Missouri adoption triad. Your adoption triad and the relationships you form with each member of it will be unique and special to you.

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.

Birth Mother Blog

Open Adoption: What it is and Why It’s the Preferred Adoption Option in Missouri

April 26, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Open Adoption: What it is and Why It’s the Preferred Adoption Option in Missouri

Are you a birth mother in Missouri who is considering an open adoption? If so, you might have some questions about putting your baby up for adoption. The good news is that at Adoption Choices of Missouri, we have answers.

Adoption has evolved with the times. While many people still think of a closed adoption as the most common choice, that isn’t actually the case. Birth mothers choose different types of adoption based on their personal needs, but open adoptions have become more common.

Open Adoption: what It is and Why It’s the Preferred Option

What is Open Adoption?

Open adoption refers to an adoption in which all parties maintain communication. This means that you will stay in contact with your birth child and his or her adoptive family pre, during and post-placement. As opposed to a closed adoption, both you and the adoptive family will share identifying information in an open adoption.

In an open adoption, you’ll have the opportunity to meet with your birth child in person. This can help establish a strong bond and grow your relationship. If both you and your child’s adoptive family agree, these meetings can include grandparents and extended family members as well.

In an open adoption, you will get to choose your child’s adoptive family. At Adoption Choices of Missouri, you’ll have the chance to look through our potential adoptive family portfolios. These contain information about each family for you to review. You can select a family that feels like a good match and your adoption caseworker will facilitate a phone call and an in-person meeting.

What Does Communication Look Like in an Open Adoption?

Because each adoption is as unique as each birth mother, communication in an open adoption will look different for everyone. However, there are a few common factors you can expect. For example, you might communicate through direct emails or letters, as well as meet in person.

If you choose an open adoption, you will need to establish boundaries with your child’s adoptive family. By doing so, you can make sure that all parties are in agreement about what type of communication is acceptable. Your adoption caseworker can help facilitate this discussion. It is helpful to remember that the best agreements are the ones that are best for your child.

Why is Open Adoption the Preferred Option?

Open adoption has become the preferred option for many reasons, one being that it anticipates the needs of your child. It is common for adopted children to develop questions about their birth mothers as they grow older. In an open adoption, you will remain a part of their lives from the beginning. This can help your child as they navigate the challenges of discovering and forming their own identity.

Another reason that open adoption is often preferred is because it can lessen any negative stigmas around adoption. Because information is readily available, questions can be answered as soon as they are asked. Keeping something private can sometimes lead to the misconception that it is shameful or embarrassing. Rather, adoption is a process that is many things—joyful, complicated, emotional—but never something to be ashamed of.

Is an Open Adoption Right for You?

Now that you have more information around open adoption, what it is and why it’s the preferred choice, you might be ready to select the type of adoption you’d prefer.

Only you can decide if an open adoption is the right choice for you. Because you are an expert on your own needs and situation, the final choice ultimately has to come from you. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t ask for some support! At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we provide you with an adoption caseworker who can help you walk through the benefits and drawbacks of an open adoption.

Additionally, if you have supportive friends and family in your life, you can always turn to them for advice. Be sure to listen to your heart when making this choice. At the end of the day, the best decision is the one that will benefit 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

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

Birth Mother Blog

5 Benefits of Open Adoption in Missouri

April 19, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

5 Benefits of Open Adoption in Missouri

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Missouri, you might be searching for options. The good news is that you have choices! At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we offer three different types of adoption: closed, semi-open and open adoption.

Each of these types of adoption has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The right choice for you will depend on a number of personal factors. You will need to take into account your situation, your preferences and your needs. If you are considering an open adoption, it can be helpful to know some details. Fortunately, there are manybenefits of an open adoption.

1. You Can Choose Your Child’s Adoptive Family

It is natural to want your child to be placed with an adoptive family that will love and care for them. At our Missouri adoption center, we have an extensive list of potential adoptive family portfolios for you to browse. These portfolios include information about each family and their background, beliefs and values. While you look for a good match for your child, you can keep in mind any specific areas that you’d like your child’s adoptive family to share.

You will not embark upon this portion of your adoption journey alone. Your adoption specialist will be there to answer questions and offer support. Once you select a family that you are interested in, your adoption specialist will help you set up a phone call. From there, you’ll have the option to meet the potential adoptive family in person. If you change your mind at any point during this process, you always have the freedom to move in a different direction.

2. You Can Build a Relationship With Your Birth Child

One of the wonderful things about an open adoption is that you can build a relationship with your birth child. You will have the opportunity to communicate with them through several different methods, including photos, letters, emails and meet ups.

It is important to come to an agreement with your child’s adoptive family ahead of time concerning any communication details. If everyone is on the same page, you can all avoid crossing any boundaries by mistake. You will want to cover topics like how often you will communicate with your birth child, what that will look like and if any other family members will be involved (i.e. relatives, siblings, etc.).

3. You Can Build a Relationship with Your Child’s Adoptive Family

In addition to building a relationship with your birth child, you can also build one with his or her adoptive family. This will depend on what you and your child’s adoptive family agree upon, but it is possible to establish a strong bond. You might stay connected through phone calls or emails. If you’d like, you can meet in person and spend time with your birth child together. Whatever feels right to you both is the best way to go.

4. Your Birth Child Can Ask Questions About Their Adoption

As your birth child grows older, they will likely develop questions surrounding their identity and background. This includes questions about their adoption and you, their birth mother. If you are able to maintain and build a relationship with them from birth, it is easier to answer these questions as they arise. Your child will grow up knowing the details of his or her adoption and, most importantly, that they have been loved their whole life.

5. You Have the Comfort of Knowing How Your Child is Doing

Because you will have a relationship with your birth child in an open adoption, you can stay informed about what’s going on in their life. This includes big life events, like weddings and graduations, as well as smaller dailly moments. The amount that your child chooses to share will vary between families, as well as with any agreements you come to with your child’s adoptive family.

Having a connection to your child can help alleviate any worries or anxieties related to their wellbeing. If you are still experiencing those feelings, it can help to speak to a professional. Adoption Choices of Missourioffers access to counseling service during your pregnancy and post-placement as well.

Is an Open Adoption Right for Me?

Now that you are more familiar with some of the benefits of open adoption and types of adoption, you can begin to consider if this is the right option for you. Be sure to listen to your heart and reach for support when you need it. Our adoption agency in Missouri has plenty of help to offer and we are happy to answer any questions that you might have. We want you to feel confident and secure in any choice that you make.

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 Ways to Communicate in an Open Adoption in Missouri

April 16, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

4 Ways to Communicate in an Open Adoption in Missouri

Open and respectful communication is one of the best ways to build a solid relationship with someone. If you are a birth mother in Missouri who has chosen an open adoption, finding healthy ways to communicate will be crucial. Not only will you remain in contact with your birth child, you’ll also have an ongoing relationship with his or her adoptive family.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we have plenty of support available for you as you navigate the waters of your open adoption. Your adoption caseworker can answer any questions you have about the different ways that an open adoption can look. Your adoption journey will be unique to you, but there are a few common ways to communicate in an open adoption.

Phone Calls with Your Birth Child and His or Her Adoptive Family

One simple way to communicate with your birth child and his or her adoptive family is through phone calls. These can be quick check-ins to see how things are going or longer phone calls that cover the bigger events in your birth child’s life. Both types of calls can be helpful ways to communicate.

When might you give your birth child or his or her adoptive family a call? Again, this depends on any prior agreements that you’ve made with your birth child’s adoptive family. Maybe you’ve decided on a certain day to hold a weekly check-in. Perhaps you’ve all decided that it’s okay to call regardless of the day or time. Maybe you’d like to speak on the phone before or after big life events, like a graduation or a wedding. These phone calls can look many different ways. The important thing is that you maintain positivity and respect the boundaries you’ve discussed with your birth child’s adoptive family.

Visit Your Birth Child In Person

Another way that you can keep up communication with your birth child is through in-person visits. With an in-person visit, you’ll be able to catch up with your birth child and get to know them through conversation. You might plan an activity that the two of you can do together, like going to the park or taking a painting class, or you can choose to keep it less structured.

Keeping in touch in this way allows you to watch your birth child grow up. You’ll be able to see them develop from a small child to an accomplished adult. If you and your birth child’s adoptive family have discussed this, you can also visit their house for dinner or other events. In this way, you are able to connect with both your birth child and his or her adoptive family at the same time.

Write Letters to Your Birth Child

Sometimes it can be hard to say all the things that we want to in person. Something comes up and we forget, or it feels a little bit too awkward to express a bigger emotion. Writing a letter is a great way to ensure that you communicate everything you were hoping to with precision.

If you’re not sure what to include in a letter, take a minute to jot down a list of possible ideas. Is there anything in particular that you really want your birth child to know about you or your family? This is the perfect opportunity to teach them. You can include information about your childhood, rituals or beliefs that are valuable to you and details about the things you love.

It is also a wonderful place to express your feelings for your birth child and let them know that they are cared for deeply. Do keep in mind, however, that it is not appropriate to share anything that would violate your agreement with your birth child’s adoptive family or go against any beliefs that they are sharing with them.

Follow Your Birth Child and/or His or Her Adoptive Family on Social Media

The world can feel very small and interconnected these days, thanks to social media. An easy way to keep up with your birth child and their adoptive family is by following them on social media. Make sure you discuss this beforehand with the adoptive family.

You can comment on posts and keep up with life events through pictures and captions. It also allows you a quick avenue to let your birth child know that you are proud of them. Sometimes, communicating big feelings in a smaller way can be a great reminder of how much you care.

Consider an Open Adoption in Missouri Today

There are so many ways to communicate in an open adoption. Make sure that you discuss your preferred methods of communication with your birth child’s adoptive family before you commit to any. From there, you can outline a plan with them to ensure that there are no surprises along the way.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we understand that it can be hard to come up with a communication plan. Our staff is here to help should you need it. Our goal is for your open adoption to be joyful and filled with love.

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

What is Semi-Open Adoption in Missouri?

April 12, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What is Semi-Open Adoption in Missouri?

If you are a pregnant woman in Missouri, you are probably aware that there are several different types of adoption for you to consider when putting your baby up for adoption. How do you know which one is right for you? The best way to make that decision is to become familiar with your available choices. Let’s explore semi-open adoption.

What is Semi-Open Adoption?

Just like the name suggests, this type of adoption falls somewhere in the middle of open and closed adoption. It can be a good choice if you want some updates about her child, but also want to maintain your privacy.

Here are some key aspects of semi-open adoption:

Communication in a Semi-Open Adoption is Conducted through a Third Party

In a semi-open adoption, you will still have the opportunity to receive updates and information about your child. However, you will not be communicating directly with him or her or the adoptive family. Rather, all your communication will be facilitated by a third party.

What does that mean? It simply means that Adoption Choices of Missouri will help mediate your interactions with the adoptive parents and your child through ChildConnect, a secure and safe online portal. Rather than sending an email or a letter directly to your birth child, you and the adoptive parents will be able to exchange letters, updates and photos with each through ChildConnect.

You have Privacy in a Semi-Open Adoption

Similar to a closed adoption, any identifying information in a semi-open adoption is kept private. You won’t share this kind of information with your child’s adoptive family, nor will they share information about themselves with you. Communication usually occurs via email, letters or photographs. In-person meetings are very rare, although you may choose to have your child’s adoptive family at the hospital during the child’s birth.

You can Choose Your Child’s Adoptive Family in a Semi-Open Adoption

You will have the option to choose your child’s adoptive family if you elect to have a semi-open adoption. You will have access to our adoption agency’s extensive portfolios of potential adoptive families. In these, you’ll be able to read bios about each adoptive family and select a couple or individual who seems like a good fit for your baby.

Your adoption caseworker is available to support you through this decision process. She can answer any questions you have and facilitate any meetings or conversations with the potential adoptive family. The final decision is still up to you, but you will have plenty of support should you need it.

How Do I Know if Semi-Open Adoption is Right for Me?

It can be tempting to rely on others to make difficult decisions for us. However, you know yourself and your situation best. Listen to yourself when it comes to making this choice and respect your own decisions. The best choice is the one that feels right for you and your baby.

If you need support, try reaching out to family or friends whom you trust. It can be helpful to talk things over before making any final decisions. You can also turn to your adoption caseworker for support. Additionally, if you feel the need to speak to a professional at any point during your adoption journey, our Adoption Choices of Missouri offers counseling services to all pregnant women considering adoption.

Will You Choose Semi-Open Adoption?

If you are a birth mother in Missouri and are deciding which type of adoption is right for you, take some time to consider the benefits of each of your adoption options. Now that we have answered the question of what is semi-open adoption, use this knowledge to help inform your decision.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact Adoption Choices of Missouri. We are always happy to educate you further around the features of semi-open adoption. Our top priority is that you have the information and confidence to make the best decision 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

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

Birth Mother Blog

What is a Missouri Closed Adoption?

April 9, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

What is a Missouri Closed Adoption?

It is a common misconception that all adoption journeys look the same. In reality, each birth mother’s adoption journey is unique. One important choice that you will have to make as a birth mother in Missouri is what type of adoption you’d like to have.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, you will have the option to choose from three types of adoption — open, semi-open and closed. While they each have their own set of benefits, the right one for you will be based on your own needs. If you are considering a closed adoption, your biggest question might be, what is closed adoption?

The Details of a Closed Adoption

A closed adoption means that you and your child’s adoptive family will not have any contact. You will not meet them, and it is likely that you will know very little about each other. All the personal and identifying details about yourself and your child’s adoptive family will be kept private.

Because there is little to no contact between you and your child’s adoptive family, Adoption Choices of Missouri will play a big role in moderating any decisions or agreements between parties. Additionally, it is common for our adoption agency to select your child’s adoptive family during a closed adoption. This ensures your complete privacy. We do take this decision very seriously and will do our best to place your birth child with an adoptive family who matches the criteria laid out in your adoption plan.

The Benefits of a Closed Adoption

The benefits of a closed adoption will differ between each birth mother’s situation and preferences. However, one benefit of a closed adoption can be a strong sense of closure. The finality of a closed adoption can make it simpler for some birth mothers to begin the process of healing and moving forward to the next chapter in their life.

Another benefit of a closed adoption is the privacy that it offers. If you prefer to keep your own information private, this type of adoption will allow you to do so. A closed adoption also means that you will not need to navigate the boundaries of open or semi-open adoptions. For some birth mothers, this can be an important factor in their decision.

The Potential Drawbacks of a Closed Adoption

Just as each type of adoption has its benefits, each will also have its own set of potential drawbacks. In recent years, there has been a larger shift towards open and semi-open adoptions. Why? In part because of the possibilities for communication that arise with the more open types of adoption.

With a closed adoption, you will not be able to know your child as he or she grows older. If they have questions about you, he or she will need to wait until they are eighteen to seek those answers. This can be confusing for adoptees, who often develop questions as they grow older and begin to discover and form their own identities.

How to Choose the Type of Adoption You Want

Just like any big decision, it is best to take the time to think through this choice. If you have people in your life that you trust, talk over your options with them. If you don’t, you can always speak to your adoption caseworker. She will guide you through your available choices and support you as you come to your decision.

Additionally, it is important to listen to yourself. You are the expert when it comes to what is best for your life. Choose the type of adoption that fits your needs and makes the most sense for you and your baby.

Include the Type of Adoption You Want in Your Adoption Plan

After answering the question, what is a closed adoption?, take the time to think about whether it is right for you. Once you’ve made your choice, make sure to include it in your adoption plan. This will ensure that you are prepared for the future.

Remember, Adoption Choices of Missouri will support whatever decision you make. We understand that there is no right type of adoption, just the one that fits your adoption journey best.

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

3 Tips for Making Your Adoption Plan in Missouri

April 7, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

3 Tips for Making Your Adoption Plan in Missouri

Are you a birth mother in Missouri? If so, you are probably getting ready to create your adoption plan. Just like any kind of plan, an adoption plan helps eliminate surprises as you continue along your adoption path. It serves as a guide and can help you prepare for some of the difficult decisions you will need to make.

While it might seem intimidating to come up with an adoption plan of your own, you have plenty of support available! At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we’ll match you with an adoption caseworker who will be there to address any questions or concerns. While each individual adoption plan is unique, there are a couple of important areas to consider when making your adoption plan in Missouri.

1. What Type of Adoption Do You Want?

One of the biggest decisions that you will face is deciding on the type of adoption that you wish to have. You will have the option to choose from a closed, semi-closed or open adoption. Your adoption counselor can walk you through each choice and answer any questions you may have.

It is important to remember that this decision will be based on what feels right to you. Your adoption journey is individual to you. While others can help you talk through each option, trust yourself as you make your final choice. Each type of adoption has its own benefits and the one that feels right to you is the correct choice.

2. What Values would You Prefer Your Child’s Adoptive Family to Share?

Another decision that you will include in your adoption plan is information around your child’s potential adoptive family. You will have the opportunity to browse our extensive portfolios of possible adoptive families for your child. While it is wonderful to have so many choices, it can also be a little overwhelming. Outlining some factors that are important to you and which you’d like your child’s adoptive family to share can be a good place to start.

What factors might you take note of? Anything that is personal and valuable to you. If you are religious and would like your child’s adoptive family to share this aspect of life with your child, you can include that information in your adoption plan. Maybe it is important that your child’s adoptive family share a cultural background with you and your child. Your adoption plan is the place to write down this information. However, try to be open-minded whenever possible. If you find an adoptive family who feels like a great fit but they don’t match one of your criteria, you might want to consider them anyway.

3. What will Your Hospital Stay Look Like?

There are a lot of details to consider about your delivery day. You will need to plan what hospital you are going to give birth in, as well as choose your doctor. You’ll also want to make arrangements for what you’d like to have happen as soon as your baby is born. Make a list of the people you’d like in the delivery room with you, and whether that includes your child’s adoptive family. Additionally, you can decide if you’d like to hold your baby post delivery. Planning out your hospital stay will ensure that you have an idea of what to expect and can feel safe and prepared.

Are You Ready to Begin Making Your Adoption Plan in Missouri?

The important thing to remember if you are making your adoption plan in Missouri is that you are not alone. You can turn to supportive friends or family for help. Your adoption caseworker will also be by your side to guide you through the adoption planning process.

At Adoption Choices of Missouri, we want your adoption journey to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you have any further questions about what to include in your adoption plan, feel free to contact us and our staff will be happy to help. If you feel ready to make your adoption plan, reach out to your adoption caseworker to get started as soon 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.

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