So you’ve decided that adoption is the way you’re going to welcome a child into your family. Now, how exactly does this process work? There are so many questions to answer just to get started that it can feel overwhelming: Should you go through an agency or use an attorney? Would you consider fostering a child? Do you want an open relationship with the birth parents? How will you afford the fees? Okay, take a deep breath. Domestic adoption can happen one of three ways. You can hire a lawyer and make it a totally private affair. You can adopt through an agency. Or you can go through the foster system. While each has its pros and cons, the biggest difference is in how you find the potential birth mother. Agencies typically locate birth parents and offer them adoptive-parent profiles to choose from. Attorneys either teach their clients how to locate birth parents or provide them with people who can help them. With foster care, children in the system are often there because their birth family has been deemed unfit due to neglect, abuse or other issues.

There is no single reason why birthmothers choose to put their baby up for adoption. That’s because every birthmother is unique and each adoption has it’s own set of circumstances. Consider these common reasons before making a decision. It’s safe, confidential, and free. Financial Abilities. Can you afford to provide for yourself and a baby? Lack of Support System — Are there people in your life who can help you raise a child? Two-Parent Household — If the birthfather is not involved, would you prefer a two-parent family? Career & Education Goals — Are you still in school? Will your career or job allow the time and flexibility needed to parent? Age & Inexperience — Parenting is a lifelong commitment. Are you emotionally and physically ready to parent? You are in control of your adoption plan, including the type of post-placement relationship you want to have with your child and the adoptive family. This means that even if you choose unrelated adoptive parents, you can remain an important part of your child’s life. Most importantly, remember that when you make an adoption plan for your baby, you will be forever connected to him or her and the adoptive family. If you choose to have a relationship with them, they will become your family, too. If you are considering family adoption for your baby, you may speak with an adoption specialist to discuss your situation and ensure it is truly the right choice for you and your baby.