Open Adoption in New York
Open Adoption in New York: Staying Connected with Your Child
When you place your child for adoption in New York, you don’t have to say goodbye. At one time, adoptions were secret and closed. This is not the case anymore. Today, many birth parents want an open adoption in New York.
Open adoption looks different for every birth family, but this type of adoption allows you to receive updates, photos, and even stay in touch with your child as they grow up. Often birth parents build relationships with the adoptive family. This allows them to remain part of the child’s life.
If you’re interested in considering an open adoption and you want to be connected with a family who is also interested in an open adoption, we’re here to help. At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we’ll assist you in finding an adoptive family that supports your desire for openness and honors your communication preferences.
What Is Open Adoption?
Open adoption is an arrangement where birth parents and adoptive families maintain communication before, during, and after the adoption process. This can include:
- Emails or letters
- Photos
- Phone calls
- In-person visits
Open adoption allows you to:
- Stay informed about your child’s milestones.
- Eliminate the “what if” questions that often come with closed adoptions.
- Choose the right adoptive family for your child with confidence.
While open adoption lets you maintain a relationship with your child, it’s important to note that it is not co-parenting. The adoptive parents will make all parenting decisions, but you can trust them to love and support your child fully.
Many birth parents find open adoption provides peace of mind. Here are a few benefits:
- Connection: You can watch your child grow through updates and even have visits if agreed upon.
- Identity for Your Child: Your child will know their adoption story, helping them feel secure and loved.
- Medical and Family Information: You can share important details about your family’s medical history and traditions.
Can Open Adoption Be Legally Enforce
In New York, you can create a Post-Adoption Contact Agreement that outlines how often and in what ways you’ll stay in touch. Once approved by a judge, this agreement becomes legally enforceable.
Unfortunately, New Jersey does not enforce these agreements by law. However, many families honor “good faith” agreements because they believe ongoing contact is beneficial for the child.
Flexibility Over Time
Your feelings about open adoption may change as life evolves. Post-adoption agreements often set a minimum level of contact, but you and the adoptive family can agree to more frequent communication if it benefits everyone.
How to Get Started with Open Adoption
Taking the first step can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
- Call us at 518-557-1722 or contact us online. Or text anytime: 801-563-1000
- Learn about adoptive families and their profiles.
- Work with us to create a plan tailored to your needs.
Open adoption is a way to show your child love, even from afar. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your wishes are respected and your child’s future is bright. Reach out today to learn more!