openadoptioninsight.org/what_is_open_adoption.htm What is Open Ado...

What is Open Adoption What is Open Adoption What We Believe Insight Open Adoption Resources and Support Home Expectant Parents Considering Adoption. Preparation for Adoption Adopted Children and Adults Birthparents Adoptive Parents Services for Professionals Foster Parents Great Writing Message Boards Links Support Us Contact Us! What is Open Adoption Ask five people what their definition of open adoption is and you are likely to get five answers. Some may think that allowing an expectant parent to choose the prospective adoptive parents from a profile of non-identifying information is an open adoption. Still others may say that those who met prior to placement and who exchange pictures and letters after the child is placed in the adoptive home are participating in an open adoption. This definition is, in fact, a variation of a semi-open adoption or openness in adoption. So what is an open adoption The primary difference between a truly open adoption and a semi-open adoption is that the adopted child has the potential of developing a one-on-one relationship with his or her birthfamily. It is not about the adoptive parents bestowing birthparents with the privilege of contact, nor is it about birthparents merely being available to provide information over the years. Direct contact, in the form of letters, phone calls and visits between the birthfamily and the adopted child, along with his adoptive family, is essential if they are to establish their own relationship. After all, how can we honestly call an adoption open if the child is not involved For many who are just beginning the adoption process, the concept of open adoption appears to be another complication they would rather not deal with. One prospective adoptive mom, weary from years of infertility, asked me at an adoption conference, "I am pursuing an international adoption because I don t want to have to deal with my child s birthfamily in any w...