Expectant Parents

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost to place my child for adoption?
Nothing, there is no cost to expectant parents for any services provided by Childplace.

Is there financial assistance available to me?
Yes, Childplace is able to assist you with expenses that are directly related to the well-being of your child. Typically, assistance can be provided for expenses such as medical bills, transportation for medical appointments, maternity clothing, food, and basic living expenses.

What if I have used drugs or alcohol while pregnant?
If you are pregnant, we would encourage you to seek prenatal care as soon as possible. If you do not have a doctor already identified, our staff will assist you in finding a doctor and obtaining medical insurance. Even if you were unable to obtain pre-natal care, we can still move forward with an adoption plan, if you desire. We would also encourage you to discontinue use of any drugs or alcohol throughout the duration of your pregnancy, as this can be harmful to your child. We work with adoptive families who understand that these substances might be a part of your child’s history and are still open to adoption.

What is the difference between open, semi-open, and confidential adoption plans?
The degree of openness in an adoption plan refers to the amount of disclosure and on-going communication. In an open adoption, you will have ongoing contact with your child and with the adoptive family throughout your pregnancy and after the adoption plan is completed. In a semi-open adoption, the birth family and adoptive family maintain limited communication after the adoption. This typically occurs through letters and photos. Communication is mediated by the agency and identifying information is protected. In a closed adoption, there is no contact between the adoptive family and birth parents. Childplace will assist you in finding a family who desires the same type of openness as you do.

How do adoptive families become eligible to adopt?
Families who desire to adopt through Childplace are very carefully selected. Criminal clearance checks are completed for both adoptive applicants, as well as any members of the household. Prospective adoptive couples also provide a statement from their physician, as well as financial verifications to provide evidence that they have obtained the financial means to provide for a child. We complete a physical inspection of their home to ensure that the environment is safe. In addition, we request references from individuals who know the adoptive couple well. We interview each spouse separately, as well as together as a couple, to discuss their parenting styles, family relationships, marital relationship, and motivation to adopt, among many other topics. After the couple is approved, they wait to be chosen by a birth family to become parents.

May I choose the adoptive family for my child?
Yes, you will be given the opportunity to choose an adoptive family that you feel will be the most appropriate match for your child. You may choose the family from viewing profile books, or we can also arrange for you to speak with the family or meet them in person prior to the birth, if you choose to do so. If you do not desire to choose the family, our staff will place your child with a loving family. Your involvement in this process is entirely your decision.

Can I see or hold the baby while in the hospital?
Yes, a Childplace counselor will speak with you about all of your options nearing delivery and throughout your stay in the hospital. We will ensure that the doctors and nurses understand your preferences. You may also choose not to see the baby at all and to be moved away from the maternity floor. You have many choices and the decision is entirely yours.

What about the baby’s birth father?
Your child’s birth father also has legal rights. If he is a safe person who you are actively involved with, we would welcome the opportunity to meet him. We can speak together about your options with regard to your child. If you are unsure who the birth father is, we can still move forward with an adoption plan. We will provide you with an attorney who will explain your rights and help you to make an informed decision regarding the birth father or possible fathers of your child.

What if I change my mind and do not want to move forward with the adoption?
If you determine that adoption is not the best choice for you, we will encourage you and support you in this decision. You will not sign the paperwork consenting to the adoption until after your baby is born. The time period for you to withdraw your consent varies from state to state. Your adoption caseworker and attorney will discuss this in detail with you to ensure that you understand your rights.

When is it too late to create an adoption plan?
It is never too late to create an adoption plan. We can meet with you at the hospital, or even after your baby has been born. However, if you are considering adoption, we would encourage you to contact Childplace so that we may assist you in exploring your options and provide support to you during your pregnancy.

Still have questions?
You are welcome to get in touch with us and we would love to speak with you in more detail about your unique situation. An adoption specialist is available 24/7 to answer questions that you may have. Birth parents may call or text (502) 693.5853.