Rhode Island Open Adoption Guide

If you are pregnant and living in Rhode Island, you may be considering adoption. This is a positive choice for anyone who is not yet ready to become a parent. The first thing to know is that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you and you can – and should – take time to consider your options. It is also important to know that, thanks to Rhode Island open adoption, you can lovingly make an adoption plan all while knowing the future will be bright for you, your child, and your relationship.

It is important to note that, while often referred to as “giving baby up for adoption,” this is an outdated and misleading term. Adoption is far from “giving up.” Choosing to place your child for adoption in Rhode Island means placing their needs before your own desires. Adoption is never an easy decision, but it can ensure that your child has a life full of love, stability, and opportunity. With open adoption in Rhode Island, you can rest assured that your decision is not “goodbye forever.” It is just the beginning.

As you are considering creating an adoption plan for your child, you are likely to have many questions. In this short guide, we will highlight important information to know about Rhode Island adoption.

What is Open Adoption in Rhode Island?

Open adoption entails ongoing communication between birth and adoptive families. You, the birth parent, can choose your child’s adoptive parent(s.) You can also determine how you will stay connected with the adoptive family over the years.

With a closed adoption, as the name would suggest, the adoption is completely closed. There is zero information shared between birth and adoptive families, nor is there any contact between the two parties before or after the adoption is complete. This may be the more comfortable option for you, depending on your needs and wishes. A Rhode Island open adoption, however, is all about open, honest communication and mutual respect. With an open adoption in Rhode Island, both birth and adoptive parents shared the bond that is the love for the same child, and the two parties often build a deep, meaningful relationship for life.

How Does Open Adoption Work in Rhode Island?

The notion of staying connected with the family raising your child may sound foreign. If you are unfamiliar with Rhode Island open adoption, you may struggle to wrap your mind around the idea. This arrangement, however, can prove to foster a wonderfully positive and loving relationship.

Since this is your adoption plan, you are in charge. You can determine the form and frequency of communication, such as:

• Photo and letter updates that are sent to you
• Text message updates
• Emails
• Phone calls
• A shared photos album
• In-person reunions

You may wish to stay connected and receive updates several times throughout the year. If you are pursuing your own personal and/or professional goals after the adoption is complete, you may wish to have annual reunions. There is no right or wrong way to design your Rhode Island adoption. The choices are yours.

How to Find the Perfect Rhode Island Adoption Agency for You

As you consider open adoption in Rhode Island, you will want to start with a full-service, private adoption agency. These adoption professionals will ensure that your adoption is handled safely, smoothly, and legally. This agency will also guide you through the adoption process every step of the way. Here are some key factors to consider when searching for the best Rhode Island adoption agency:

Agency reputation

It is important to find the right adoption agency during this stressful time in your life. Your pregnancy should be handled with care. You should look for a reputable, trustworthy, and experienced adoption agency. Adoptions With Love, for example, has been working with Rhode Island birth mothers since 1986 with an excellent reputation.

Supportive services

An unplanned pregnancy is a difficult journey. The best adoption agencies in Rhode Island will offer the support you need – at no cost. These services should include professional counseling – before and after the adoption is complete. At Adoptions With Love, expectant/birth parents planning adoption have access to the following supportive services:

• Housing: We can provide a deposit and several months of rent, as needed.
• Other living expenses: Adoptions With Love can provide help with costs such as utilities, phone bills, transportation, and maternity clothes.
• Medical care: We can help you find a midwife or doctor with whom you can trust, and cover any uninsured medical expenses related to pregnancy and birth.
• Counseling services: Our professional counselors can help you navigate this emotional experience, before and after the adoption is complete. This is an important part of the adoption journey. Expectant/birth mothers are highly encouraged to pursue – and continue – counseling services as long as they are needed.
• Legal services: Our team of Rhode Island adoption attorneys can walk you through the adoption process, answering any questions you may have along the way. These professionals can help you understand your rights as a birth parent. Adoption laws are complex and vary by state.

According to Rhode Island adoption laws, for example, a birth mother may consent to the adoption no sooner than 15 days (about 2 weeks) after having given birth. An adoption attorney in Rhode Island can help you navigate these intricacies and make the adoption journey a smoother one.