Frequently Asked Questions for Birth Mothers Considering Adoption in Kansas
By Alexandra Butcher
Unplanned pregnancies can give way to many fears and anxieties regarding the adoption process. Maybe you’re still trying to decide if adoption is the right choice for you, or you’ve already decided, but you don’t know where to begin. You have so many unanswered questions. Adoption Choices of Kansas is here to help you during your pregnancy and adoption and provide you with genuine answers to all the questions you may have.
Common Questions Birth Mothers Have About Adoption in Kansas
1. Will My Child End Up In A Safe Home?
Giving a child up for adoption is nerve-wracking, but always remember that adoption agencies in Kansas City and, in general, always put adoptive parents through thorough screening processes and home studies. These prospective parents have gone through various stages of background checks, and they have been deemed safe homes for your baby. You shouldn’t be concerned about your child’s safety in their new home because adoption agencies ensure that the screening process is as rigorous as possible. Rest assured that your child will end up in a home that loves and supports them.
2. What is the Adoptive Parent Screening Process Like?
Each adoptive couple will fill out a profile that includes information such as age, length of marriage, number of children they already have (if applicable), occupation, budget, religion, etc. They also go through a background check and home study. And remember that you always have the choice to meet with the possible adoptive families beforehand and choose whichever you think is the best fit. We understand that you may be worried about your child’s safety and want them to be loved as if they were the adoptive parent’s biological child, so we ensure you are a part of the adoption screening process.
3. Can I Meet Prospective Adoptive Parents Before Deciding?
Yes, if that’s what you want! Many birth mothers and fathers choose to meet possible adoptive parents for their child before the adoption is finalized. Remember that you always have a say in the adoption process. You will be given multiple adoptive parent profiles and can choose whichever you think is the best fit for your child. Many birth mothers have specific religious or occupational preferences for the family they want their child to be adopted by. If you have any preferences, you can fill out a form detailing them, and we will give you profiles that best match your answers!
4. Will My Child Know They Are Adopted?
Adoptive parents, more often than not, always tell their children if they are adopted. It won’t happen right away, but as soon as the children are old enough to understand, they will be told. If you choose to play an active role in your child’s life after the adoption, you can speak to the adoptive parents to decide when it is the right time to do it, what you should say, and who should be present.
5. What Is The Difference Between An Open and Closed Adoption?
This is a very common question when birth mothers begin considering adoption. An open adoption refers to an adoption in which the birth parents remain in contact with the adoptive parents, while a closed adoption is the opposite – birth parents and adoptive parents do not communicate with each other, and birth parents are not a part of their child’s life. Depending on your circumstances, you may favor one type of adoption over the other. Always know that there are choices out there that can make adoption easier for you and your baby.
6. Can I Still Be Involved In My Child’s Life?
Depending on your adoption type, you can still be a part of your child’s life. Many birth parents choose an open adoption that allows you to maintain a connection with your child. The level of that connection is up to you. Whether it’s letters or messages or even scheduled visits with your child – this can all be discussed with the adoptive parents!
7. Where Can I Get Information About Adoption?
You can get all the information you need about adoption and creating an adoption plan right here with Adoption Choices of Kansas. We can connect you with adoption services in Wichita or other adoption agencies in Kansas. Don’t be afraid to contact us simply to discuss options for you and your baby. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable in your decision.
8. Does the Birth Father Need To Be Involved?
If you don’t know or cannot contact the birth father, you can proceed in the adoption process by yourself. If you know who the birth father is and choose to enter into the adoption process, he will be notified. Birth fathers have the same rights as birth mothers. But don’t let this stop you from making the decision you think is best for your child.
9. What About Financial Assistance?
The adoption process is free to birth mothers placing their child up for adoption. In many cases, you can receive financial assistance from adoption agencies or the adoptive families themselves to help alleviate any financial burdens that the adoption process or your pregnancy may place on you. Adoptive families pay fees that cover the birth mother’s living expenses and ensure you are well cared for during the pregnancy. We want birth mothers to live as stress-free as possible during the pregnancy to ensure the baby’s health and safety.
10. Should I Choose Adoption and How Do I Know It’s The Right Choice?
Giving a child up for adoption is a huge decision, and it is completely normal to feel indecisive about it. Sometimes, birth parents simply aren’t ready to take care of a baby, especially after an unplanned pregnancy. The reality is that the best choice in some situations is to put your child first by placing them up for adoption. It doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you strong. If you don’t feel you can take care of your child in the way they deserve, adoption may be the right choice for you.
The Essential Question: How Do I Start The Process?
It is never too late to start the adoption process. Simply reach out to an adoption agency in Kansas or contact Adoption Choices of Kansas, and we can help you create your personalized adoption plan. If you are still wondering how to give a baby up for adoption, check out the resources available on our website or contact us directly, and we can help you on your journey.
