For centuries, people have turned to adoption when they needed to provide for children. Here are some questions you might ask about this option:
What is adoption?
Adoption is the legal placement of a child with people who will raise the child as their own.
Is adoption a permanent option?
Yes. The child becomes permanently and legally part of the adoptive family with full rights to inheritance and a lifetime family relationship.
Am I being selfish to think of adoption?
No. Putting the child’s welfare first is a true act of love. Adoption is a hard decision and hard to do, but knowing your child is in a loving home of your choice gives peace of mind.
Am I likely to feel sadness after adoption?
Yes, you probably will for a time. You may think about the child you placed for a long time, but knowing the child is happy and that you helped give the child a solid foundation in which to grow, can be a source of strength to you.
Don’t children belong with their birth parents?
Sometimes a birth parent just isn’t ready or able to parent a child. Children need to be cared for day in and day out, year after year. They need a stable family. Adoptive parents may be better able than birth parents to provide a home.
Will people think badly of me for choosing adoption?
Some may. There are different attitudes about adoption in our society. It takes strength and courage to do what you believe to be right. Selecting adoption may be the most loving option you can choose. It is your decision.
Will my baby be well taken care of?
The families that are part of our agency have been carefully screened and have taken many parenting classes. All of our families are committed Christians and are ready to love and raise a child. You have the option to personally select the parents you want for your child.
Is adoption the easy way out for me?
Far from it. Adoption is a difficult decision to make. It might be easier to say, “It’s my baby, and no one is going to tell me what to do.” But you have to think about yourself and other people who are close to you. And you have to think about the child’s future.
What if the father of the baby doesn’t know I’m pregnant?
Eventually, he will have to know. If you do not want contact with him, we will arrange for someone else to meet with him. If you choose adoption, there are legal papers he will have to sign.
Is there someone I can talk to about legal issues?
If you are seriously thinking about adoption for your child, our attorney is glad to meet with you and answer any of your questions. There is no charge for this. |
