When most people think of adoption, they picture an expectant parent making a plan during pregnancy. But the truth is, adoption can be an option for moms who have already delivered or parenting a newborn as well.
At Adoption Advocates, we understand that caring for an infant can come with challenges you didn’t anticipate. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Adoption may still be an option.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering adoption for a child you’re already parenting.
Is It Too Late to Choose Adoption?
No. In Texas, a parent can place a child for adoption at any age. However, Adoption Advocates — like most private adoption agencies — primarily works with children from birth to age three.
There is no shame in asking for help or reassessing your ability to parent. It takes strength to consider what’s best for your child, even if that means making a difficult decision.
Before Exploring Adoption, Consider All Other Options
Before making a permanent decision like adoption, it’s important to explore every possible option. You might find that with the right support, you’re able to continue parenting or make a short-term plan that gives you time to stabilize.
Here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Parenting with support from local organizations
- Temporary guardianship with a friend or family member
- Respite or crisis care
- Mental health and/or substance use treatment
Adoption is a permanent decision, and it's important that it’s made thoughtfully —not out of pressure or temporary hardship. through a private adoption agency.
What Does the Process Look Like?
Every situation is unique, but here’s a general outline of how the process works when placing a baby you’re already parenting:
1. Contact our adoption agency
You can reach out by phone, text, or email. We’ll connect you with one of our experienced counselors who will talk with you about your situation, without pressure or judgment.
2. Receive counseling and support
You’ll be given time and space to process your emotions, explore all your options, and get the support you need to make an informed decision. We can also help connect you with temporary resources if your challenges might be resolved in the future.
3. Make an adoption plan (if you decide to move forward)
If adoption feels like the right choice, you’ll work with your adoption specialist to create a personalized adoption plan. This includes deciding the type of adoption you want (open, semi-open, or closed) and choosing an adoptive family that aligns with your values.
4. Begin the transition process
Relinquishing an older child you’ve been raising is a deeply emotional and difficult experience for you both. We recommend taking the process slowly and spending time with the new adoptive family so they can start attaching to the child and the child to them.
You’ll also need to provide as much information about your child’s history as possible, including birth and medical records, routines, your child’s likes and dislikes and anything else the family needs to know for a smooth transition.
5. Legal steps
Parental rights are not terminated until all legal steps have been completed. You will be represented by your own attorney (at no cost to you), and the process is fully voluntary.
6. Post-placement support
Adoption Advocates provides ongoing support and counseling after placement. Open adoption communication plans can help you stay connected to your child and their adoptive family if that’s what you choose.
What Should I Consider?
Here are a few questions you might ask yourself:
- What are my reasons for considering adoption now?
- What kind of relationship do I want to have with my child in the future?
- Am I open to counseling or support services before making a decision?
- What do I need to feel secure, emotionally and financially?
We’ll walk with you through these questions and more.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Adoption is a permanent decision, and it’s important that it’s made thoughtfully—not out of pressure or temporary hardship. If you’re considering adoption for a child you’re already parenting, know that your love and care are evident in every step you’re taking.
You deserve to explore all your options in a safe, compassionate environment. Let’s talk about what’s best for you and your child—together.
Call (512) 477-1122
Text (512) 270-8415
Request info online
