5 Things to Know Before Placing Your Child With an Adoptive Family
If you are pregnant and considering adoption, you may feel overwhelmed with questions about the process and what it will mean for you and your child. Adoption is a deeply personal decision that allows you to create a plan that fits your values, needs, and goals. Whether you are still exploring your options or ready to move forward, Open Arms Real Choices Clinic in Coeur d’Alene is here to provide compassionate support and factual information about adoption in Idaho.
1. You Have a Support Network to Help You
While adoption is a loving and selfless choice, it may or may not be the right path for you. Before deciding, it’s important to explore every option, including raising your child. You may be surprised by the support available from family, friends, or community resources.
If you lack a personal support network, Open Arms Real Choices Clinic offers:
✔ Adoption support services to connect you with trusted agencies.
✔ Life skills classes to help you develop parenting skills and confidence.
✔ Mentorship and counseling with compassionate advocates who can walk alongside you as you make your decision.
You are not alone in this process. We are here to support you emotionally and practically, whether you choose to parent or pursue adoption.
2. You Can Control Much of the Adoption Process
If you decide that parenting is not the right path for you, adoption allows you to remain involved in the process. In Idaho, you have the legal right to:
✔ Choose the type of adoption – Open, semi-open, or confidential.
✔ Select the adoptive family – You can meet and get to know the adoptive parents if you wish.
✔ Determine your level of involvement – You can outline how much contact you want with your child.
💡 Adoption Options:
-
Open Adoption: You can maintain contact with your child and the adoptive family.
-
Semi-Open Adoption: You may receive updates (letters, photos) but have limited direct contact.
-
Confidential Adoption: Your identity remains private, and you will have no direct contact with the adoptive family.
3. We Can Provide Adoption Support in Coeur d’Alene
Adoption is a legal process, which requires working with an adoption agency or attorney. At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we offer adoption support services to help you:
✔ Understand Idaho’s adoption laws.
✔ Connect with licensed adoption agencies.
✔ Navigate the emotional and practical aspects of adoption.
💡 Idaho Adoption Laws:
In Idaho, birth mothers have the right to:
-
Voluntarily consent to adoption at least 12 hours after birth (Idaho Code § 16-1504).
-
Choose the adoptive parents, if desired.
-
Receive counseling and support throughout the process.
-
Revoke consent only if it was obtained through fraud or duress.
✅ The Father’s Rights in Idaho:
In Idaho, biological fathers may have rights regarding the adoption process. The Idaho Putative Father Registry allows unmarried fathers to claim parental rights by filing with the state. If the father is not involved or does not register, the adoption can proceed without his consent (Idaho Code § 16-1513).
4. If You Want, You Can Choose Your Child’s Adoptive Parents
One of the most empowering aspects of modern adoption is that you have a voice in the process. You can:
✔ Review profiles of potential adoptive families.
✔ Meet with prospective parents to ask questions and learn more about them.
✔ Create a custom adoption plan that reflects your values and preferences.
Choosing your child’s adoptive family can provide peace of mind, knowing they will be raised in a loving and stable environment.
5. The Father Might Need to Know About the Adoption
Whether the biological father needs to be involved in the adoption depends on Idaho law and your specific circumstances. In Idaho, the father may have legal rights if:
✔ You are married – Your spouse is presumed to be the child’s legal father.
✔ The biological father has registered with the Idaho Putative Father Registry.
✔ The father has established paternity through legal action.
💡 If You Are Unsure:
✔ Talk to an adoption counselor about whether you should involve the father.
✔ Seek legal counsel if you have questions about parental rights.
✔ Know your options – Adoption professionals will ensure you comply with Idaho’s adoption laws.
Free Adoption Support in Coeur d’Alene
Adoption is a courageous and loving decision. At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we are here to empower you with information and connect you with compassionate resources.
✅ Our Adoption Services Include:
✔ No-cost pregnancy testing and ultrasounds – Confirm your pregnancy and establish your due date.
✔ Adoption support and referrals – We’ll connect you with reputable adoption agencies.
✔ Counseling and advocacy – Our team will walk alongside you throughout the process.
✔ Ongoing support – Whether you choose adoption, parenting, or another path, we offer emotional support and practical resources.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re considering placing your child with an adoptive family, let us help you explore your options with care and compassion. You don’t have to make this decision alone—we are here for you every step of the way.
📞 Call us at: 208-667-5433
📅 Make an appointment online:
🔗 realchoicesclinic.com/make-an-appointment
📍 Visit us at:
8056 N. Wayne Drive
Hayden, ID 83835
Open Arms Real Choices Clinic is here to offer free, confidential adoption support and compassionate care—because you deserve to make informed decisions with dignity and support.
