Older Adoption Facts

The decision to place your child for adoption is a choice that only you can make. However, Gift of Life is here to help you navigate all the questions you may have.

Below is a list of common questions we’re often asked about placing an older child for adoption.  You are always more than welcome to contact us 24/7 to gather as much information as you need to feel comfortable with your decision.

Can I receive counseling to help me process my decision to place my child for adoption?

Yes, Gift of Life Adoption is able to provide counseling to you before, during, and after you place your child for adoption. This tool is a great help in your decision making process. This service is offered free of charge to you, and can be utilized as often as needed.

Can I meet the adoptive family I have chosen for my child?

Absolutely! You can decide whether or not you would like to meet the family. Many times, Gift of Life Adoptions facilitates a lunch or dinner. This is a great opportunity for everyone to sit down and really get to know each other. These meetings typically last about 2 hours and are held at a location where you feel the most comfortable.

Can I place siblings for adoption through Gift of Life Adoptions?

Yes! Gift of Life Adoptions can help place your children with the same family so they can remain together and tailor your adoption plan to what you want. Please do not hesitate to call us with multiple children in your home.

Will someone from Gift of Life be with me when I meet the adoptive family?

Yes, your assigned case manager will be with you during your meetings with the adoptive family. Your case manager will help guide the conversation between all parties and is there to provide support for you. Of course, you are always welcome to bring a family member or friend. This is a very special time for you, and to have a little extra support is always great!

Can I still see my child after the adoption?

You can decide what would work best for you in regards to seeing your child after an adoption. All of our families provide picture and letter updates of the child up until the child’s 18^th birthday. If you are looking for a more open adoption plan, including visits, you can discuss this option with your case manager. Gift of Life will always work to find a family that will meet your needs.

Does it cost me anything to place my toddler for adoption?

No, the birth family has no financial burden concerning the adoption plan.

 Does the father need to be involved in my adoption plan?

The father of your child does not necessarily need to be involved in your adoption plan, however, you will need to provide Gift of Life with as much information about the birth father as you can. This is to ensure that your adoption plan is valid, and the child can be legally placed with the adoptive family. Feel free to call our office to speak to one of experienced staff members about the birth father’s involvement in your adoption plan.

How long does an adoption plan take to complete?

Your adoption plan can go as slowly or as quickly as you would like it to. Gift of Life Adoption is here to help you through the process at your pace.

When will my child be placed with the adoptive family?

Your child will be placed with the adoptive family after the Consent for Adoptionis signed. During your adoption plan, Gift of Life develops a transition plan for your child.  The transition plan allows your child to meet the adoptive family to ensure that they feel comfortable and ready to go live in their new forever home.

Transition plans typically start with showing your child the adoptive family’s profile book or photo album. Then next step is a meeting with the adoptive family that will likely take place in a child friendly environment like a playground or a park.

Every transition plan is different and tailored to you and your child’s specific needs.  It’s always best for your child to see encouragement from you. An adoption plan is a life-altering event, so we always encourage all parties to be a supportive member of the transition, letting the child know that everything is alright.

Can I send my child’s clothing with them when they go to live with the new family?

Absolutely. We encourage our birth families to provide some sort of comforting item for their child to take with them to their new home. This can be a blanket, a special shirt, or even a particular teddy bear. Whatever you feel your child would want or need in their new home, you are welcome to send with them. Our goal is to make the change of homes go as smoothly as possible for the child, and providing them with a familiar item is a great start.

How will the adoptive family know what my child likes or dislikes?

When you meet with your case manager they will ask you a number of things about your child. This is to help the adoptive family learn about your child’s routine, likes, and dislikes. Your case manager will ask questions about: bedtime routine, food preferences, potty training, particular fears, and even their favorite book or tv show.

These details will help your child during the transition, as well as aid the adoptive family in preparing for their homecoming.

We hope this helps answer some of the questions you have about older child adoption. Of course, Gift of Life Adoptions understands that this may not cover all of your concerns, and our staff is always happy to talk with you.   We want you to feel like you have all the information you need to make an educated decision.

We would love to talk to you about your options. Feel free to give us a call at 727-549-1416 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or Click on Message (which is located at the bottom right-hand side of your screen) if you would like to talk to someone in our office right now.