Making an adoption plan is a complex process. Choosing a family to raise your baby can be one of the most exciting parts, but it can also be nerve-wracking.
Once you’ve reviewed family profile books and selected your favorite(s), it’s time to get to know them. Often, the first contact is a phone call, although some parents choose to meet for coffee or lunch.
Some expectant parents are nervous or anxious the first time they speak to prospective adoptive parents. This is totally normal, and chances are the adoptive parents are just as nervous! Having your questions prepared in advance can help break the ice and ensure you get all the information you need to make a decision.
Below are some ideas to get you started. Most likely, more questions will come up once you start talking. We recommend writing down your questions to make sure they all get answered. If they don’t get all get answered, or you have more questions after your meeting, you can request a second conversation.
Getting to Know You Questions
- How did you meet?
- Do you enjoy what you do for work?
- How long have you lived in your area?
- What is your neighborhood like?
- Are you close with your families?
- What do you do for fun? What are your weekends like?
Their Values and Philosophies
- What values are important to you?
- How will you pass on these values to your child?
- Are you religious? How do you see religion being part of your child’s life?
- What is your philosophy on discipling a child?
Parenting and Adoption
- Why do you want to be parents?
- Why are you considering adoption?
- What does open adoption mean to you? What do you expect that to look like?
- How will you talk to your child about the adoption?
- Have you thought about how you would help this child connect with his or her heritage?
- Are your friends and family supportive of your decision to adopt?
- Do you know anyone who has adopted or is an adoptee?
If there are questions you don’t feel comfortable asking, discuss them with your adoption specialist. She can ask the adoptive parents on your behalf and help you avoid an uncomfortable situation.
Are you currently looking for a family to adopt your baby? View profiles of Adoption Advocates’ adoptive parents waiting to be matched.
