CONSIDERING ADOPTION?
Here Are The Most Frequently Asked Questions.
Below are listed some of the most commonly asked questions by birth parents. We would be happy to discuss any of this information or any other questions you might have about the adoption process.
How long has CRCC been licensed by the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services?
CRCC has been licensed with the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services for over 40 years.
There are many levels of openness in adoption. Birth parents and adoptive parents are encouraged to create an open adoption agreement that suits their comfort level. Different examples of openness can include sharing letters, photos, name selection, different communications, and meetings. Exchange frequencies and methods vary from one family to the next. Extended family relationships in an open adoption are developed so that adopted children will be able to have ongoing relationship opportunities with members of their birth family. Open adoption is child centered. It may help your child develop a strong sense of identity by having contact with members of their birth family. In an open adoption, their questions about their birth family background can be provided to the child on an ongoing basis.
There are no costs to the expectant parents for any of the services that are provided in the course of preparing the adoption placement. It is important to understand that no money can be given to the expectant parents by any party for any reason, whether it be to cover medical costs, living expenses, or a direct payment for potential placement of the baby.
Yes. We will provide you with professional counseling services to help you understand all of your options while providing you with unbiased and non-judgemental advice.
Yes. You can change your mind and revoke your consent to the adoption up until the revocation period expires. In Ontario, birth parents have 21 days after signing the consents in which they can change their mind. If you do withdraw your consent for the adoption, your child must be returned to you.
Yes. You will be given the opportunity to review “family profiles” and if you wish, to meet with them to help make your decision about who will adopt your child.
Yes! This is definitely acceptable and very much encouraged. Most adoptive families will be thrilled to have such mementos of you so that they can explain to their child who you are and how important you and others were in them joining their family. Your child will also be able to see, and be reminded of, who they look like instead of wondering about who gave them their brown eyes or freckles.
Not every birth parent wants to stay in contact with the adoptive family. There are many levels of openness, and these will be discussed when we meet with you.
Sometimes an expectant mother is not in contact with the birth father during the pregnancy. This will be discussed in counseling and with the licensed adoption professional to determine the best course of action.
All decisions related to the child and the adoption remain the sole responsibility and prerogative of the expectant parents, although you may choose to include your parents in the decision making process or simply for support. The office of the Children’s Lawyer will also meet with you to provide independent legal advice and to ensure that you are making all decisions without coercion, having considered your options.
Sometimes expectant parents hear, through a family member or a friend, about a family who would like to adopt their child. This is called a matched placement. Even if you know the family that will adopt your child, they will need to be “adopt ready” and prepared. The Ontario Government must approve the placement before the child moves into their home. Simply call us and give us the information and we can talk about the process.
You can make an adoption plan at any time during or after your pregnancy. However, the earlier in your pregnancy you begin to consider your options (parenting, temporary care, or adoption), if you choose adoption—the more time you will have to locate a family and reflect on your choice.
