Open Adoption in Ohio
What Is Open Adoption?
Open adoption simply means that you can stay in touch with your baby’s adoptive parents and watch your baby grow.
It’s flexible — you decide how much contact you want, whether it’s letters, photos, phone calls, or visits.
Your situation will determine what you want in an open adoption. Your comfort level is of utmost importance.
Many birth mothers in Ohio like open adoption because it feels better than having no contact. It helps them know their baby is safe, loved, and thriving.
Here are some examples of what open adoption can include:
- –Photos and letters – You might get pictures and updates every month, every few months, or once a year
- –Phone calls or video chats – Some families talk on the phone or FaceTime a few times a year
- –In-person visits – You might meet for birthdays, holidays, or just because
- –Social media connection – Some families connect through private social media or the Hearts Connect app
- –Text messages – Quick updates about milestones, funny moments, or just to say hi
Open vs. Closed Adoption in Ohio
In a closed adoption, you have little or no contact with your child’s family until the child turns 18. You might choose this if you want privacy and space to move forward with your life. There’s nothing wrong with choosing closed adoption if it feels right for you.
In a semi-open adoption, you get some updates about your child but don’t share personal information like your address or phone number. Communication goes through the agency. This helps if you want to know how your child is doing but want some boundaries.
In an open adoption, you and the adoptive family share information and stay connected. This might include personal contact information and direct communication.
Your Choices Are Always Respected
Are Open Adoption Agreements Legally Enforceable in Ohio?
In Ohio, open adoption agreements are not legally enforceable. This means if the adoptive family decides to stop sending updates or visits, you cannot go to court to force them to follow the agreement.
However, the vast majority of adoptive families honor open adoption agreements because:
- –They want what’s best for the child
- –They understand the importance of the birth mother in their child’s life
- –They made a promise and want to keep it
- –Research shows open adoption is healthy for children
DeShawn from Cincinnati was nervous about open adoption. She said, “I worried the family would just disappear after I signed the papers. But Haley helped me find a family who had an open adoption with another birth mom for three years. They showed me they were committed. Now I get updates every month and we’ve met in person twice. They keep their promises.”
Our Hearts Connect App
Our Hearts Connect app helps families stay connected. This app is great for open adoption because you can easily talk with your child and their family.
Through the app, you can:
- –Share pictures and videos
- –Send messages
- –See updates about milestones
- –Keep all your memories in one private, secure place
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What If I'm Scared to Stay in Touch?
Some women worry that staying in touch will be too painful. That’s a valid concern, and it’s something your counselor can help you work through.
Many birth mothers say that seeing their child happy and thriving actually brings them peace, not pain. But everyone is different.
You can also start with less contact and increase it over time if you feel ready. Or you can start with more contact and decrease it if you need space. Communication with the adoptive family can evolve as your needs change.
Brianna from Toledo said, “At first I thought seeing photos would make me sad. But my counselor helped me understand that knowing she’s okay would actually help me heal. She was right. Every time I see a picture of her smiling, I feel proud of my choice.”