Open adoption provides for an on-going relationship between the birth parents, adoptive parents, and the adoptee. 

Open adoptions also can include other family members such as siblings, grandparents, uncles and aunts in the birth and adoptive families. These connections develop and evolve over time. 

Like any healthy relationship, relationships in open adoption must include respect, honesty, love and communication. Embracing the best interest of the child is of utmost importance. And it is a lifelong commitment to that child that should be at the center of all decisions made.    

At Barker, we believe each adoption is unique.

Not every birth parent or adoptive family will want a fully open adoption. With that in mind, we look at the different “degrees” of openness birth parents and adoptive parents might want and we help facilitate the discussion about openness. We also ensure that the birth and adoptive families have the same understanding of what openness means. 

Communication is essential to any aspect of an adoption plan.    

With different degrees of openness, the range of contact may start with an initial meeting even before the baby is born.  Birth parents and adoptive parents might meet only that one time and then plan on the exchanges of photos and letters after the child is placed.  Other birth parents and adoptive parents might plan on meeting several times before the baby is born and then have visits after the baby is placed with the adoptive family.

Exchanging of photos and letters, phone calls e-mails and visits are all possibilities after a child is placed. 

Birth parents will work with their counselors to decide what amount of contact is realistic for them and what they can manage. Making an adoption plan for your child is an emotional and difficult time, and we will be with you every step of the way as you decide what is best for your child.  

Whether there is direct contact between the birth parent and adoptive family or whether the agency facilitates the communication, Barker staff will assist everyone in making the best plan that will keep the child’s best interests at heart.