What’s the Difference Between an Open Adoption in Arizona and Co-parenting?
By Isabelle Sitchon
When going through the adoption process, a birth mother will have to make an adoption plan. This includes choosing which type of adoption (open, semi-open, and closed) she would like for her child. In addition, it determines the level of openness you have with the adoptive family during the process. If you are a birth mother, you may have heard of the term “co-parenting” used when discussing open adoption. However, it’s important to note that open adoption and co-parenting are not the same.
But what is co-parenting exactly? And how is it different from an open adoption? At our adoption agencies in Arizona, we understand that you may have many questions about this part of the adoption process. We’ll go over what you need to know about co-parenting and open adoption.
What is an Open Adoption?
Oftentimes, many birth mothers will choose open adoption when deciding on a type of plan. Open adoption allows you to choose the family that adopts your baby. This also means that the birth mother and the adoptive family can communicate with each other during and after the adoption. If you still want to connect with your child in the future, this is certainly an option for you. There is always a family waiting to love your child in an open adoption.
Depending on the level of contact the two parties agree on, the birth mother can keep in touch with her child. Many birth mothers and adoptive families keep in touch through:
- Photos
- Videos
- Phone calls
- Video chat
- Emails
- Letters
- In-person visits
Why Should I Choose an Open Adoption?
Putting up your child for adoption may be an emotional and uneasy journey. When you choose an open adoption in Arizona, you’ll be able to become closer to the adoptive family. Our counselors are here to help you, but it may feel even more comforting to have another form of support in your walk through the adoption process. Our adoptive families are carefully screened, so we are confident that they will not only support you as a birth mother but will also embrace your child in loving arms. There are other benefits of choosing adoption as well:
- You’ll feel more relieved to know how your child is growing up and what sort of environment they are living in
- If health issues arise, it will be easier for your child to get help by knowing your medical and biological history
- Your child will know who you are, and you may have a chance to develop a relationship with them
- You can be part of your child’s life in the future, depending on what you and the adoptive family agree on
It’s important to remember that your decision on what type of adoption you would like for your baby is yours, and yours only. Our adoption agencies in Arizona will help you understand the process and provide guidance, but we will not pressure you into any choice.
Will I be Co-Parenting With the Adoptive Family?
To put it simply, “co-parenting” means that two individuals share the responsibility of raising a child. This is not to be confused with open adoption. The birth mother’s relationship with the adoptive family differs. She and the family will be able to communicate with each other, but this does not mean that she will make parental decisions. On the other hand, when an open adoption happens, all parental rights are given to the adoptive parents. This means that they will decide how to raise their child, which involves all legal and medical choices.
As a birth mother, this may feel difficult to compromise during your journey. However, knowing your child will be in safe hands is important. The adoptive family will raise the baby with love and care, but you won’t need to be involved as a co-parent. If you are seeking support in this situation, your counselor at Adoption Choices of Arizona can provide help.
Getting Support During Your Walk in the Adoption Process
Open adoption can open new opportunities for you. While you may not be able to make any important decisions as your child grows up, you do have a chance at forming a long-lasting relationship with them alongside the adoptive family. If you want to understand more about what happens in an open adoption or would like to know how to give a baby up for adoption, birth parents can visit us at Adoption Choices of Arizona or call or text us at 1-480-900-5520. If you are a prospective adoptive family hoping to adopt a baby, please instead visit us here!
