Open Adoption: What it is and Why it’s the Preferred Option
Going through the adoption process might alarm you at first. There are certainly a lot of details to iron out as you go along. However, Adoption Choices of Colorado is here to take some of that stress away and help you figure out your path. A number of potential birth mothers worry about never seeing their child again, which is totally okay and understandable. Luckily, while moving on from your child is an option, there are far more welcoming options these days where you can remain in contact. Let’s talk about why open adoption is best if you want to leave the doors of communication wide open.
I Know Nothing About Open Adoption, so What Exactly is it?
If you are looking for the basics, then you have come to the right place. In most cases, there are three types of adoption, all of which pertain to different levels of communication between you, your child, and your child’s adoptive family.
First, there is closed adoption. If you sought this particular blog post out, then this likely is not the option for you. This is for birth mothers who choose to move on completely from their child, for one reason or another. It isn’t inherently a bad choice, but it is usually not recommended unless your situation really calls for it.
Second, there is semi-open adoption. Here, there is more communication between you and your child’s adoptive family so that you may be able to plan visits or keep up with growth and progress. However, it is important to understand that this is not an option of perfectly direct communication — Adoption Choices of Colorado would essentially play the role of mediator and act as a buffer or a third party between you and the other party.
Finally, there is open adoption. This one actually is about as close as you will get to direct communication. You’ll be able to talk with your child’s adoptive family and not have to go through a third party to do so. When we talk about why open adoption is best, this reason is primarily why it gets the crown.
Do I Get to Choose What Adoption Type I Want?
Before you start thinking that this is all luck-of-the-draw, yes, you do get to pick the adoption type that works best for you. The adoption type you want is usually paired with a family, so you also get to select what family you would like to raise your child. Your influence means a lot when it comes to the adoption process and, based on your choices, you will hopefully be well on your way to creating dynamic connections with people who are on the same page as you.
What Are Some Other Benefits of Open Adoption Besides More Communication?
Honestly, most or even all of the benefits fit under the umbrella of “more communication”. By seeing your child at least somewhat regularly, you will be able to create more of a close relationship with them as they grow up. You can teach them about your interests, their ancestry, or more — all without being absent from their life. You’ll also get to make new connections, like with your child’s adoptive family. Odds are you will disagree on things, but you’ll have the opportunity to feel out new connections and get to know new people. You can plan joint events or holidays as well. Really, the benefit of communication means that you will have so many more opportunities to socialize with your child and know about their world. It is essentially the gift of shared time and you can help decide how to spend it — that is why open adoption is best.
If I Want to Take My First Step With the Adoption Process, What Should I Do?
If you visit the official website of Adoption Choices of Colorado, we have a form that you can fill out. Once you send it in, we will contact you and assign you a case worker if you choose us to represent you on your adoption journey. From there, we have a lot of ways to help you minimize stress. We can help you figure out your plan without you worrying about having to come up with one from scratch. Our strategies are based in many successful adoption stories, so from day one we will be there for you and be ready to assist you as best we can.
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and want to learn more about your adoption options, contact Adoption Choices of Colorado by email, phone, or text: Email Us, Text us: 720-371-1099, Call us: 303-670-4673 (HOPE). If you are hoping to adopt, please contact us here.
Meet the Author: Nathan Dyer is a university student majoring in Communication Arts with a radio/TV/film focus. He enjoys writing professionally and dealing with hands-on problems in real-world scenarios. Among his hobbies is hiking, which always encourages him to explore new places. He looks forward to crafting written materials in the future that serve to help people from all walks of life.