Types of Adoption in Missouri
Before you can move forward with the adoption process, it’s important to understand the different types of adoption in Missouri.
There are several choices for any adoptive family when it comes to adoption. Keep in mind that, ultimately, the type of adoption utilized is the birth mother’s decision. They will get to decide what types of adoption in Missouri will work best for them and their lifestyle.
You can keep reading to learn more about the types of adoption in Missouri or call our team now at 1-800-ADOPTION to speak with an adoption professional about getting started with adoption.
Types of Adoption in Missouri
If you’ve been researching the types of adoption in Missouri, chances are that you’ve come across some common types of adoption.
The three primary types of adoption are:
- Open
- Semi-closed
- Closed
Each type of adoption has its own pros and cons.
Open adoption is one of the most common types of adoption in Missouri.
With open adoption, adoptive families and birth parents will communicate openly throughout the child’s life. This ensures that the birth mother never has to wonder if she made the right choice when she chose to place her baby for adoption. She’ll know!
The adoptive family will keep the birth mother involved in their lives. They will help ensure that she gets to be a part of her child’s life as the baby grows up.
Adoptive families can communicate with birth moms through:
- In-person visits
- Letters
- Phone calls
- Video chatting
- Social media
Another one of the types of adoptions in Missouri is semi-closed adoption.
When you’re reading about the different types of adoption options in Missouri, you may have spotted some information on semi-closed adoption.
With this type of adoption, birth parents and adoptive families will only communicate through a mediator, such as their adoption agency.
A semi-closed adoption means that the adoptive family will still be able to contact the birth mom for medical and heritage questions but will not be speaking with her directly.
Finally, one of the least common types of adoption in Missouri is closed adoption.
Historically, closed adoption was one of the most common types of adoption in Missouri. With a closed adoption, birth parents and adoptive families do not communicate after the adoption takes place. Most of the time, they do not even exchange identifying information, such as last names or city location.
Today, however, closed adoption is quite rare.
This is because recent studies have shown that open adoptions are the most ideal for adoptees. Adoptees who experience open adoption feel more self-confident and comfortable with themselves, as well as with their adoption experiences.
What are the Benefits of Private Domestic Adoption?
As you’re learning about the types of adoption in Missouri, you might want to know more about the benefits of private adoption.
While there are many ways to adopt a child, including international and foster care adoption, the truth is that domestic adoption provides parents with the largest amount of control.
When you decide on the types of adoption in Missouri that are right for you, you’ll connect with an adoption agency that can help you move forward with the adoption process.
One of the first steps you’ll take is to complete an APQ.
This questionnaire allows you to state your hopes and dreams for your adoption and for the child you hope to welcome into your family.
With private domestic adoption, you can decide whether you want:
- A boy or a girl
- One child or multiple children
- A child who may have health problems
- A child with a complicated family medical history
- A child with your same ethnic heritage
During this time, you will also be able to set the budget for your adoption.
Additionally, your adoption specialist will be able to give you a clearer estimate of how long you can expect to wait to welcome your child into your family.
In general, when you work with American Adoptions, your wait time is an average of 12 months.
Why Choose a Private Domestic Adoption Agency?
When you begin learning about the different types of adoption in Missouri, you might have questions about why you should work with a private adoption agency.
One of the reasons to consider working with an agency is that the experience will be safe.
When you work with an adoption agency, your team members will help you understand the different types of adoption in Missouri.
They’ll ensure that your adoption takes place in accordance with state adoption laws and that you’re meeting your state requirements each step of the way.
Additionally, working with an agency means you’ll have a lower wait time.
Preparing for Adoption
If you’re comfortable with what you’ve learned about the types of adoption in Missouri and you’re ready to start the adoption process, don’t wait.
Call 1-800-ADOPTION now to speak with one of our team members about how we can help you become a mom or a dad.
Disclaimer
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