Support for Birth Parents

What is open adoption?

An open adoption is one in which the birth parent(s) select and meet the adoptive parents and exchange some or all of the identifying information.  It usually means that both families will communicate directly and agree to information exchanges.

In an open adoption, it is not uncommon for the birth and adoptive families to spend time together during doctor's appointments and in the hospital after the birth.  There is usually a mutually agreed-upon amount of post-placement contact between the families. 

While this type of adoption is not for everyone, it can be a positive experience that provides both the birth parents and the adoptive parent(s) with peace of mind and comfort. 

Is it hard to place a child for adoption?

Exploring the adoption process is a deeply personal and individual process.  It is best to talk with a knowledgeable maternity counselor who understands adoption and can guide you through the process. With good preparation and support, you can make the best possible plan for you and your child.  

Women who place a child in an open adoption generally find that they are empowered by the control they have over decision-making and feel secure in the relationship they develop with the adoptive parents they select.

When is it too late to talk about adoption?

We work with birth parents from the time they find out they are pregnant up to the time of delivery and beyond.

Whether you are pregnant or currently parenting, our counselors are available to discuss your options.

Even if you have been involved with Child Protection Services, our counselors will assist you in determining whether an adoption plan is in your child's best interest.

Does the birth father need to be involved?

We welcome the opportunity to have the birth father involved in the process. If the birth father is still involved with the birth mother and/or wants to be involved in the planning for the child, he can also receive counseling from our staff.   

It is beneficial to have the birth father's involvement if there is conflict about whether to parent the child or create an adoption plan. Separate counseling appointments can be scheduled to work on conflict resolution issues.

If at all possible, it is important to collect medical history information from the birth father in case the child experiences medical issues in the future.

How soon after birth can the baby be placed with the adoptive family?

The baby is generally discharged directly from the hospital and placed into the adoptive family's care.

If I am under 18, do my parents have to give their permission for me to choose adoption?

No. You do not need your parents' approval to place your child for adoption.  If the birth parents would like the involvement of their families (parents, grandparents, siblings), we will include those family members in the adoption counseling process. 

If my parents want to raise my child, do I have to let them?

No. You and the birth father (if he is involved) can decide who you will place your child with.  Grandparents have no special rights in Idaho.

Are adoptive parents required to be residents of Idaho?

Because the State of Idaho licenses us as a non-profit established to provide adoption services in Idaho, we prioritize families who live in the state.  However, if a birth mother has a specific request that cannot be fulfilled by any of our families in Idaho, we will search for adoptive families outside of the state.

When out-of-state placement is appropriate, we work closely with out-of-state agencies to recruit the right family for your child. 

Will my baby have to go into foster care before being placed with a family?

No. We do not use foster care services. The babies are discharged directly from the hospital to the adoptive family. 

What happens if my baby is born medically fragile?

It is important to be honest with your counselor if you are concerned about genetic issues or substance use during your pregnancy. This ensures that the adoptive couple you select is aware of potential issues.  

From our experience, your chosen family will likely still be committed to adopting your child.  If they do not feel they can meet the child's unique needs, we will work with you to select a family with the resources to raise your child.

If I decide to place my child up for adoption, will I have to go to court?

Yes.  Placing a child for adoption is a legal process, and you will need to sign legal papers in the presence of a judge.  The process is very private, and only the people involved in the adoption planning are allowed in the courtroom. An Idaho Youth Ranch maternity counselor will accompany you to court and help guide you. 

Once I have been to court, can I change my mind?

Once the judge has approved the adoption and signed the papers that terminate your parental rights to the child, it is not possible to change your mind.

Will Idaho Youth Ranch help with my expenses?

We can help all birth mothers determine eligibility for state assistance for medical expenses.

If you place your child for adoption, the adoptive family will be responsible for the medical expenses related to your pregnancy and any related legal costs. In certain cases, we can also help with "reasonable and necessary living expenses."

Why should I work with Idaho Youth Ranch instead of a family law attorney?

Adoption is an emotional journey, and our trained maternity counselors are here to help you make the right decision for yourself and your baby. We provide advocacy, support, and counseling to birth parents throughout the process. We work collaboratively with other community resources and can connect you with ongoing support.

Additionally, we work with adoptive parents to ensure that they are emotionally prepared to adopt a child. We stay in touch with adoptive families over the child's life to provide ongoing support as the child grows up.