5 Adoption Myths & the Facts Behind Them

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At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we’ve dedicated our mission to caring for birth mothers, building happy families, and clearing up adoption misconceptions. Understanding the truths behind common adoption myths is crucial for those considering embarking on this beautiful and rewarding journey. Here’s what we want you to know.

Myth 1: All Adoptions Are Closed

The Fact: The landscape of adoption has dramatically transformed over the years. While closed adoptions were once the norm, they now represent a small fraction of arrangements. In fact, it’s estimated that only 5% of modern adoptions are closed. 

That means 95% of today’s adoptions involve some level of openness. Whether through semi-open or open adoptions, there’s room for communication tailored to the comfort levels of all parties involved. 

Here at St. Elizabeth Foundation, we specialize in open adoptions, navigating these relationships with compassion and respect.

Myth 2: Adopted Children Are Treated Differently Within A Family

The Fact: This is one of the biggest adoption myths being spread. There’s immense love and longing behind each adoption story we witness. Choosing adoption for their baby is a profoundly selfless, courageous, and loving decision made by birth mothers for the well-being of their child. In return, adoptive parents shower both their biological and adopted children with equal measures of love and care.

Adoptive parents choose to open their hearts and lives to a child, often after years of dreaming of becoming parents. We’ve seen, time and again, the deep bonds formed and the overwhelming love shared between adoptive parents and their children.

In fact, an insightful NPR article delves into the nurturing efforts of parents towards their adopted children, emphasizing how much effort and excitement they show toward their child. For example, adopted children are more likely to be read to each day. Statistics reveal a notable contrast, with 68% of adopted children benefiting from regular reading compared to 48% in the general population. 

Myth 3: Adoptees Shouldn’t Know They Are Adopted and Typically Don’t 

The Fact: Transparency and honesty in discussing adoption with children are now seen as beneficial for their identity and well-being. Advances in psychology and counseling recommend early sharing about a child’s adoption. It fosters a healthy, open environment where children can understand and embrace their stories.

Myth 5: Adopted Children Have More Challenging Behaviors

The Fact: Another of the common adoption myths implies that adopted children are more likely to act out. Studies show that with nurturing, supportive family environments, adopted children thrive equally as well as their non-adopted peers. Every child is unique, and while some adoptees may face challenges, the love and stability provided by their adoptive families pave the way for happy, fulfilled lives. 

Additional Truths

Fewer Babies Being Placed for Adoption?

Quite the opposite! St. Elizabeth Foundation alone has placed over 600 babies with loving families. Additionally, based on the 2022 Adoption by the Numbers study by the National Council on Adoption, around 115,353 adoptions occurred in 2019. This data covers private placements, foster care adoptions, and stepparent adoptions. 

Families With an Adopted Child Is Fairly Rare?

On the contrary, adoption is more common than many realize. About one out of every 25 U.S. families with children has an adopted child, according to data in the 2010 U.S. census. Adoption touches more lives than you might think.

Waiting to Tell the Adoptee They Are Adopted When They Are Older Is Better?

Research and countless stories from adoptive families highlight the importance of early disclosure. Initiating conversations about adoption early on—preferably before the child turns three—is strongly encouraged. 

Bringing Light to Adoption Myths

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we’re passionate about sharing the truths of adoption, knowing they forge stronger, more informed, and loving families. If you’re considering adoption, we invite you to approach it with an open heart and mind, ready to discover the joy of growing your family in this special way.

To learn more or to begin your adoption journey, reach out to us at St. Elizabeth Foundation, your trusted partner every step of the way. Give us a call at 225-796-8888 or send us a message. Join us in building happy families and busting adoption myths, one truth at a time.

Transitioning Into Parenthood: Advice for People Looking to Adopt

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The path to adopted parenthood is marked by patience, understanding, and the commitment to nurture a baby into a loving family. For people looking to adopt near New Orleans, the road from deciding to adopt to bringing a little one home is rich with emotions and experiences that require care and support. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are here to provide guidance throughout your adoption journey. Whether you’re beginning your adoption application or eagerly preparing for that life-changing day when your family expands, these tips can smooth your transition into adoptive parenthood. 

Tips for During the Adoption Process

1. Be Patient With the Process

Our first advice when starting the adoption process is to be patient. The adoption process can take some time to complete. Legalities, paperwork, and finding the right connection with a child for adoption can take time.

However, persistence plays a role in the process, too. Keep communication open with your agency and continue preparing for your baby’s arrival. Remember—every challenge you overcome is a step closer to holding your little one in your arms.

For people looking to adopt in New Orleans, these guides can help you through the planning and preparation stages of the adoption process:

2. Understand Your Baby’s Background

An essential aspect of the adoption process is learning about the baby you are welcoming into your life. Should their birth mother decide on an open adoption, it’s a chance to respectfully engage with her and learn about her desires for the child’s future. This knowledge aids in creating an environment that honors the baby’s background and the connection they maintain with their birth family. 

3. Build a Strong Support System

Adoption isn’t something parents have to go through alone. Put together a support network of family and friends who can offer guidance, share in the joys, and provide a safety net as you transition into parenthood. These individuals can offer strength and understanding during the adoption process and in the years to come as you raise your child.

Tips for After the Adoption

1. Plan for a Calm First Day at Home

The first day your new family member arrives is joyful and exciting. However, keeping the environment as calm as possible for your new baby is also essential. Limit the crowd and allow your child to adjust to their new surroundings at their own pace. This also lets you treasure every moment spent with your new baby.

2. Remember That Bonding Time is Precious

Every moment you spend bonding with your baby is important. For example, skin-to-skin contact has a variety of health benefits. Not only is it a chance to bond in a heartfelt way with your baby, but it can also lead to:

  • Healthier heart rates
  • Improved mental development
  • Better sleep
  • And more 

Whether it’s through physical contact, lullabies, or gazing into each other’s eyes, this shared time creates the foundation of a deep and lasting connection.

3. Gently Acclimate Your Immediate Family

If you have other children, preparing them for the adoption of their new sibling is crucial. Ensure they also get the chance to bond with their new brother or sister and make them feel included in the process. Don’t forget to have dedicated one-on-one time with your children after bringing home your new baby to help them feel safe, cared for, and free to ask questions.

4. Be Kind to Yourself As You Adjust

Adoption is an adjustment for first-time and seasoned parents alike. This new season can come with a whirlwind of emotions and responsibilities. Be kind to yourself as you adapt to your new roles and cherish every milestone, no matter how small. Remember—the beginning is a time of growth and learning for you and for your baby.

People Looking to Adopt in New Orleans Can Start the Journey at St. Elizabeth Foundation

Choosing adoption is a big step, but you’re not alone. Building a loving home takes time and patience, but every smile and hug from your child makes it worth it. People looking to adopt in New Orleans can take the next step by contacting St. Elizabeth Foundation. Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or message us online. Our team is ready to answer any questions, help you begin your application, and offer guidance during your transition. 

How People Looking to Adopt Connect with Birth Mothers

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At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand the complexity and emotions involved in the decision of placing a child for adoption. Our mission is to help birth mothers find people looking to adopt in Shreveport, providing a supportive environment throughout the process. Learn more about the adoption process, what choices are available to you, and how our team at St. Elizabeth Foundation can help.

Understanding the Adoption Process

Adoption is a journey of love and selflessness. It involves making decisions for the betterment of your child’s life. When you’re ready to begin this journey, we are here to guide you through the process. 

Your Choices Matter

Each adoption story is unique and deeply personal. Therefore, we offer multiple adoption options to cater to your needs and comfort. The choice is yours, from open adoptions that foster direct communication with the adoptive family to closed adoptions that preserve complete privacy.

  • Open Adoption: A method where you maintain direct contact with the adoptive family, fostering a deeper connection with your child.
  • Semi-Open Adoption: This option allows limited, mediated contact with the adoptive family, balancing connectivity and privacy.
  • Closed Adoption: In this pathway, there’s no contact post-adoption, which some birth mothers may prefer.

There’s no universal right choice. We encourage birth mothers to select the option best for them and their children. 

How To Find the Right People Looking To Adopt in Shreveport

Birth mothers have the power to choose the family that will provide the best future for their children. The preferences of birth mothers vary significantly, and so do the profiles of potential adoptive families. 

With St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can explore a range of family profiles to find people looking to adopt in Shreveport that align with your preferences. In their profiles, you can learn about how the couple met, their lifestyles, family life, and other essential details that can help you envision this future for your child. 

While choosing the right potential adoptive parents, remember you’re not alone. We’re here, ready to guide you through each profile, helping you understand the nuances and aligning them with your hopes for your child’s future. Your choice matters, and we’re committed to ensuring it’s informed.

Creating Your Personalized Adoption Plan

Every birth mother has a unique story, and every adoption journey is different. We work closely with you to create a personalized adoption plan. This includes planning for the labor and delivery experience you want to have and providing free counseling services throughout the entire process—even after placement.

Why Choose St. Elizabeth Foundation?

Choosing St. Elizabeth Foundation means opting for compassion, respect, and a commitment to creating loving families through adoption. We are a trusted partner in your adoption journey, with a placement rate almost double the average for other Louisiana adoption agencies. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized support every step of the way.

Take Your Next Steps With Us

For over 30 years, St. Elizabeth Foundation has devoted our lives to creating families through adoption. We embrace every birth mother seeking to find people looking to adopt in Shreveport, offering a caring and supportive environment. We are here for you, to support you, and to help you find the perfect family for your child. 

Are you ready to explore adoption with the St. Elizabeth Foundation? We invite you to reach out to our compassionate team. You can contact us by calling 225-769-8888 or send us a message online. Let’s walk this journey together.

4 Questions You May Ask During Your Unplanned Pregnancy in Shreveport

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Finding out that you are pregnant unexpectedly can make you feel overwhelmed and confused. It’s normal to have a lot of questions racing through your mind. Maybe you are not ready to become a parent yet, or your current situation does not allow you to raise a child. Whatever the reason is, please know that you are not alone. St. Elizabeth Foundation in Baton Rouge is here to provide support and help you understand your options. Start by exploring four common questions birth mothers might ask when faced with an unplanned pregnancy in Shreveport and how you can find answers.

1. What Options Do I Have?

When finding out that you are expecting, you may wonder if you’re ready to parent a child. This is just one option available to you. Additionally, you can choose to place your baby for adoption. This can sound scary, but it can be a positive decision. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer closed, open, and semi-open adoptions to meet each birth mother’s individual needs.

In a closed adoption, there is no contact between the birth parents and the adoptive family after the placement of the child. This is unlike an open adoption where birth mothers may schedule regular visits and communication with the child and adoptive family. Semi-open adoption falls in between, with letters and updates sent through an intermediary from our adoption agency.

2. What Will My Baby Think of Me?

We understand that you may be worried about what your child will think of you if you choose adoption. However, adoption is a selfless and loving choice for your baby. They will grow up knowing that you loved them enough to choose the best life possible for them. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can connect with loving adoptive families and carefully select the best family for your child. Not only will they help provide your child with a beautiful life, but you can also have the opportunity to be a part of your child’s life as they grow up through open adoption.

3. Will My Friends and Family Support My Decision?

It’s essential to have a support system through the adoption process. This may be friends or loved ones who can offer love and emotional care as you navigate your birth and placement plan. Telling your loved ones about your unplanned pregnancy and your plans for adoption in Shreveport can be a vulnerable process. However, choosing adoption is a very personal decision, and what matters most is that you feel confident in your choice regardless of other’s opinions.

Our team at St. Elizabeth Foundation will also be there for you from start to finish. We have trained adoption professionals who offer support, guidance, and free counseling services throughout the adoption journey.

4. What Will My Future Look Like?

Adoption is a selfless act that not only provides a loving home for a child but also gives birth mothers the chance to pursue their goals and dreams. Some women may not feel ready for parenthood due to financial concerns, personal circumstances, or simply not feeling emotionally prepared. Adoption offers a sense of relief and hope for the future.

By choosing adoption, birth mothers can continue their education, advance in their careers, or simply focus on personal growth. At the same time, they are allowing their baby to grow in another stable and nurturing household. Adoption truly gives both the birth mother and her baby the opportunity for a brighter future.

Explore Your Options for an Unplanned Pregnancy in Shreveport

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Shreveport, know that there are options available to you. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are here to help you understand your options and deliver caring and compassionate support. For more information about the adoption process, call 225-769-8888 or send us a message online. Our Baton Rouge adoption agency is here to help you connect with adopting families in Louisiana and beyond as you make the best decision for you and your baby. 

What to Consider When Building a Birth Plan for Your Louisiana Adoption

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Bringing a child into the world is a profoundly personal and emotional journey, especially when considering adoption. Building a birth plan is an important part of this journey. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we believe it should be tailored to meet each birth mother’s individual needs and desires. Our compassionate Louisiana adoption agency is dedicated to supporting you as you make thoughtful and informed decisions throughout this process. As you work through the details of your birth plan, keep these factors in mind.

Planning Your Birth Experience

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we understand the importance of empowering birth mothers to shape their labor and delivery experience. We encourage you to build a birth plan that aligns with your preferences and comfort level. Here are some questions to guide you through the planning process.

1. What hospital is right for your birth?

Selecting a hospital that feels comfortable for your Louisiana adoption plan is essential. Think about whether you have a preference for a particular hospital and discuss this with our adoption specialists. Additionally, think about the type of birth experience you want, whether it involves a natural birth, a c-section, or the use of pain management options like epidurals.

2. Do you want loved ones present for the birth?

Think about the loved ones within your support network and whether or not you want them present during the birth. Whether it’s close friends, family members, or someone you trust, having a support system can provide the emotional strength needed during this important moment.

3. Do you want the adoptive parents with you for the birth?

If you choose to have an open or semi-open adoption, you can decide whether you want the adopting family to be present during the birth. Some birth mothers find comfort and support in having the adoptive family present, while others may prefer a more private experience. Our team can help communicate your wishes to ensure everyone is on the same page.

4. Do you want to keep items to remember the day?

Think about whether or not you want to keep any items to remind you of the day. This may include keeping your baby’s hospital ID bracelet or blanket. These are items you can keep for yourself or share with the adoptive family and loved ones.

5. Do you want to spend time with your baby after the birth?

Consider whether you want to hold your baby immediately after birth or spend time alone with them before they are introduced to the adoptive family. These are deeply personal decisions, and our team is here to support you in creating a plan that reflects your desires.

St. Elizabeth Foundation Is Here to Support You

St. Elizabeth Foundation is committed to helping you throughout your adoption journey, from providing financial support to offering essential counseling services. We understand that concerns about hospital bills can be overwhelming, and we are here to help. Our team can provide financial aid to ensure you can focus on the emotional aspects of your adoption journey rather than worrying about the cost of medical care.

Navigating the adoption can be emotionally challenging. Our experienced counselors offer pre- and post-placement counseling services to help you:

  • Work through the details of your adoption and birth plan.
  • Learn how to talk with loved ones about your adoption.
  • Process the emotional needs that may arise throughout the adoption journey.

We believe that addressing both practical and emotional aspects is crucial to the well-being of birth mothers. Together, we can tailor our counseling services to your unique needs.

Start Your Louisiana Adoption Journey

As you decide on the details of your Louisiana adoption, remember that St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to guide and support you. Building a birth plan is a major step in this process, and our dedicated team is ready to assist you in making choices that align with your values and desires.

To learn more about the adoption process or start your adoption journey, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation today. You can send us a message online or call 225-769-8888. Our caring team is here to provide more information about adoption and help you take the first steps toward a brighter future for you and your child.

3 Easy Ways to Support Your Loved One’s Infant Adoption in New Orleans

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Bringing a child into the world is a journey of love, hope, and commitment. When someone close to you decides to grow their family through adoption, showing support is crucial. Navigating the complexities of infant adoption in New Orleans can be overwhelming, but with your encouragement, your loved ones can find comfort and strength.

St. Elizabeth Foundation aims to serve birth mothers and adopting families, including their community members, who may be seeking resources on how they can support their loved ones throughout the adoption process. Explore three easy ways to support your friend or family member through their infant adoption journey in New Orleans.

1. Educate Yourself About Adoption

Understanding the intricacies of infant adoption in New Orleans is the first step in providing meaningful support. Take the initiative to educate yourself about the legal processes, emotional challenges, and the rights of birth parents and adoptive families in New Orleans. By gaining knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to answer questions, offer guidance, and ease any concerns your loved ones may have.

Emphasize the importance of open communication in adoption, as it fosters trust among all parties involved. Knowing the local adoption laws and resources will empower you to be a valuable source of information, making the entire experience more manageable for your loved ones.

2. Offer Emotional Support

Infant adoption in New Orleans can be an emotional process, and your loved ones will undoubtedly face moments of joy, uncertainty, and stress. Be a pillar of strength by providing unwavering emotional support throughout their journey. Listen actively, offer a shoulder to lean on, and reassure them that their feelings are valid.

Organize gatherings or activities that allow your loved ones to relax and enjoy the support of their community. From baby showers for the adopting couple to casual get-togethers, creating a positive and loving environment will make a significant impact on their adoption experience. Remember, a strong support system is invaluable during the highs and lows of the adoption process.

3. Assist With Practical Matters

Navigating the adoption journey is a deeply personal and transformative experience. Amidst the flurry of paperwork, home studies, and logistical elements, your loved ones may find themselves in need of practical assistance.

Consider the family eagerly anticipating the arrival of their adopted child. They’ve poured over documents, navigated complex legal processes, and now face a new set of tasks. Preparing the nursery, assembling baby furniture, stocking up on essentials—it can all seem overwhelming.

This is where you can step in. Offering a helping hand in setting up the nursery isn’t just about painting walls or putting together a crib. It’s about creating a space of love and comfort for the baby and sharing in the adopting family’s process of building a home for their child.

Similarly, organizing a meal train for the first few weeks post-arrival can provide immense relief to the new parents. Amidst the joy and exhaustion, a warm, home-cooked meal can provide not just nourishment, but also a reminder of the support system they have.

Are You Interested in Learning More About Infant Adoption in New Orleans? Contact Us!

Your support for loved ones navigating the infant adoption process in New Orleans is priceless. By extending your understanding, empathy, and tangible assistance, you are making a difference in their lives. Remember—every kind word, gesture of love, and moment of emotional support adds to their strength and resolve. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are always here to help you better understand and navigate this journey alongside them. Reach out to us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message for more information.

6 Winter Care Tips for Your Baby After Adoption in Louisiana

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Becoming a parent through adoption is an unforgettable journey filled with love, joy, and countless precious moments. Embracing the role of a parent for a baby through adoption in Louisiana can be both an overwhelming and heartwarming experience. However, as winter arrives, it introduces a unique set of challenges when caring for your newly adopted bundle of joy. Learn about six tips to help ensure your family has a beautiful first winter together with St. Elizabeth Foundation. 

1. Dress Them With Enough Layers, But Don’t Overdo It

With baby adoption in Louisiana, it’s important to understand that your little one can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults. Dressing your baby in light, multiple layers can keep them cozy without causing overheating. A simple rule of thumb? Dress your baby in one more layer than what you’re comfortably wearing, not including their diaper. 

2. Protect Their Delicate Skin

Harsh winter weather can be tough on a newborn baby’s sensitive skin as it is thinner and weaker than older children. Regularly applying a mild, unscented moisturizer can help prevent dryness and chapping. Also, remember to change their diapers frequently to avoid diaper rash, which can worsen due to dry winter air.

3. Take Off Their Jacket in the Car

As a loving parent, you want to ensure your baby stays warm during car rides. However, putting your little one in their car seat with a coat on can put them at risk in an accident. The layer of the coat between your baby and the car seat straps can shrink under pressure, potentially leaving your baby insecure in their seat.

We understand the concern about cold weather, but there’s a simple solution. Instead of using a coat, you can place a blanket over your baby’s lap to keep them warm without compromising car seat security. Just keep a close eye on your baby to ensure their face doesn’t become covered by the blanket. By following this advice, you can keep your little one snug and secure during car rides.

4. Prioritize Safe Sleep Habits

Ensuring your baby’s safety and well-being is paramount. Practicing safe sleep habits is crucial. Remember, a clutter-free crib is a safe crib. Avoid heavy blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals that could pose a suffocation risk. And if you’re concerned about your baby getting cold, a onesie, sleep sack, or fleece-footed pajamas are great options for warmth.

5. Schedule Regular Health Check-ups

After your baby adoption in Louisiana, regular health check-ups are vital. These visits allow your pediatrician to track your baby’s growth and development and address any concerns promptly. This can be especially important in the winter and other times when seasonal illnesses are a risk to your baby’s health.

When in doubt, follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’s recommended checkup schedule. Schedule a visit at birth, three to five days later, and then at one, two, four, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, and 24 months.

6. Shower Them With Love and Affection

Above all, shower your little one with abundant love, care, and affection. This strengthens your emotional bond and significantly contributes to their overall well-being. Cherish every moment of these first winter memories with your newest family member.

St. Elizabeth Foundation Is Here to Support You and Your Baby After Adoption in Louisiana

Becoming a parent through adoption is a beautiful journey filled with warmth and joy, but it can also come with new challenges. However, with the proper guidance and resources, you can ensure your baby’s first winter is as cozy as can be. 

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we’re dedicated to helping adopting couples provide the best home for their little ones. If you’re considering expanding your family through adoption, call us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message to start building your adoption plan. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

3 Holiday Ideas for Semi-Open or Open Adoption Arrangements in New Orleans

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The holiday season is a time of joy, love, and connection. For birth mothers navigating open or semi-open adoptions, the desire to maintain a meaningful connection with their babies can be especially strong during this time. These adoption arrangements provide an opportunity for you to stay in touch with your child after their adoption near New Orleans through St. Elizabeth Foundation is finalized. This connection can foster a sense of continuity and love. As we approach the holidays, here are three heartwarming ideas for you to stay connected with your baby and their adoptive family.

First, Let’s Define Semi-Open and Open Adoption

In semi-open adoptions, birth mothers and adoptive families share information through an intermediary, often the adoption agency, without direct contact. Open adoptions, on the other hand, involve ongoing communication between birth mothers and adoptive families. This can include visits, calls, and even video chats. 

Both arrangements offer a spectrum of possibilities for maintaining a connection while respecting your boundaries. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we empower you to choose the adoption arrangement that best aligns with your desires for communication after your adoption near New Orleans is finalized. If you are searching for ways to make your holiday visits or communication special, here are a few ideas and tips to brighten the season.

1. Mail a Gift and Spreading Joy Across the Miles

Sending a thoughtful gift through the mail is a wonderful way to bridge physical distance during the holiday season. You can choose a variety of gifts, such as a stuffed animal, a photo album, a Christmas baby outfit, a cozy blanket, or anything that holds sentimental value. This gesture not only brings joy to your child but also allows you to participate in the holiday celebrations in a meaningful way. Whether it’s a small token or a carefully curated package, the act of sending a gift symbolizes love and connection.

Tips for Birth Mothers:

  • Choose a gift that holds special meaning for both you and your child.
  • Include a heartfelt note to express your love and holiday wishes.

2. Give Them a Call to Connect Through Conversations

If you want a more direct form of communication, scheduling a phone call can be a heartwarming experience. A simple call allows you to wish your baby a happy holiday season, share their love, and reassure them of your connection. In open adoptions, video calls provide an even more intimate way to connect, allowing you to see your child’s smiling face and share the holiday spirit in real time.

Tips for Birth Mothers:

  • Schedule the call in advance to ensure everyone is available.
  • Prepare a list of things you’d like to share or ask about during the call.

3. Plan a Christmas Activity You Can Share to Create Lasting Memories

If you have chosen an open adoption, planning a Christmas activity during a scheduled visit can create cherished memories for everyone involved. Whether it’s taking photos with Santa, making ornaments, or baking Christmas cookies at home, engaging in festive activities together strengthens the bond between you, the adoptive family, and your child.

Tips for Birth Mothers:

  • Choose an activity that aligns with your holiday traditions and preferences.
  • Capture the moments through photos or keepsakes to revisit in the future.

Adoption Near New Orleans: Reaching Out to St. Elizabeth Foundation

The holiday season emphasizes the importance of connection, making it a poignant time for birth mothers navigating the adoption process. St. Elizabeth Foundation offers compassionate support and guidance for those seeking adoption options near New Orleans. To learn more about open and semi-open adoption or begin the adoption process, send us a message online or call 225-769-8888. 

Adoption, as we believe at St. Elizabeth Foundation, is the greatest gift of love, hope, and new beginnings. St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to support you on your unique journey through adoption and placement. Reach out to us today to connect with loving families ready for adoption and for continued support after the process is complete.

What Is the Private Adoption Process in Louisiana?

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November is National Adoption Month! This is the perfect time to learn more about the adoption process or finalize your own adoption plan, whether you are a birth mother giving the gift of adoption or a family ready to embrace parenthood through private adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, it is our mission to provide unwavering support to birth mothers while guiding prospective adoptive parents through the private adoption process in Louisiana. Explore what private adoption in Louisiana entails and how our agency plays a pivotal role in this remarkable journey.

The Private Adoption Process in Louisiana

Private adoption, often referred to as domestic adoption, is carried out through a private adoption agency. Choosing a private adoption is a profound and compassionate way for birth mothers to provide loving families for their babies when they feel they are unable to do so themselves. 

According to research from the ​​National Council For Adoption, there were 39,601 U.S. adoptions in 2020. In Louisiana, private adoption is a process filled with care, guidance, and support from experienced professionals like the team at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Learn more about the steps birth mothers and adopting couples can take to begin their adoption journey. 

1. Choose Adoption

The decision to pursue private adoption is a deeply personal one. Birth mothers and adoptive families alike should take the time to consider their options and determine if this path aligns with their desires and circumstances. It’s a step toward a brighter future for both birth mothers and prospective parents. 

2. Partner With an Adoption Agency

Choosing the right adoption agency is crucial, and this is where St. Elizabeth Foundation comes into play. Our team provides comprehensive information throughout the private adoption process in Louisiana. Whether you’re a birth mother in need of support or a couple eager to welcome a child into your home, we are here to guide you through the process.

St. Elizabeth Foundation offers a wide range of services, including:

  • Birth mother counseling and support
  • Home study services
  • Assistance with legal matters
  • Matching services to connect birth mothers with loving families

By partnering with an adoption agency like St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of professionals who genuinely care about your well-being and the well-being of the child at the center of it all.

3. Establish Your Match

One of the most remarkable aspects of private adoption in Louisiana is the way birth mothers play an active role in selecting the family they believe will provide the best future for their child. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we facilitate this process, ensuring that birth mothers have the information and support they need to make this challenging decision.

When a birth mother chooses an adoptive family, it’s a beautiful moment of connection and trust. The match between the birth mother and the adoptive family is a pivotal step in the private adoption process, where the foundation’s expertise is invaluable.

4. Build the Birth Plan

With the guidance of St. Elizabeth Foundation, birth mothers have the opportunity to create a birth plan. This plan outlines their preferences for the birthing experience, including whether they want adoptive parents present at the birth, the level of contact they desire after the adoption, and more. Birth plans are personalized to each birth mother’s unique situation.

5. Finalize the Adoption

The final step in the private adoption process involves legal procedures to officially transfer custody of the child to the adoptive parents. St. Elizabeth Foundation ensures that all necessary legal documents are prepared and processed to finalize the adoption.

Take the First Step With St. Elizabeth Foundation

If you are considering private adoption in Louisiana during National Adoption Month or beyond, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to offer unwavering support, guidance, and care. To learn more about the private adoption process, reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation today. 

Whether you are a birth mother interested in placement or an adoptive couple ready to file your application, you can send a message online or call 225-769-8888 to take the first step. Your journey to parenthood or your journey as a birth mother begins here, with St. Elizabeth Foundation by your side.

How to Adopt a Baby in Louisiana: A 7-Step Guide for Adopting Parents

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Are you considering adopting a baby in Louisiana and are curious about the adoption process? Let St. Elizabeth Foundation help you through the journey of adopting a child, providing support and care every step of the way. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to adopt a baby in Louisiana through our local adoption agency in seven essential steps. From understanding the application and home study process to guiding you through finalization, our experienced team can help ensure a smooth and stress-free adoption process. We are committed to making your dream of building a family a reality.

Step 1: Qualify for Adoption

Before embarking on the adoption journey, it’s crucial to understand the qualifications set by St. Elizabeth Foundation. Our organization requires adopting couples to be married for at least five years, ensuring stability and a strong foundation for your new family.

Step 2: Apply for Adoption Through St. Elizabeth Foundation

Once you meet the qualification criteria, the next step is to submit an adoption application to our infant adoption agency. This application initiates the process. It’s essential to be patient as the review may take some time. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that potential adopting couples meet all requirements and can provide the safest and most loving home possible.

Step 3: Complete a Home Study

The home study is one of the most critical steps in the adoption process. It’s crucial to maintain a clean, loving, and child-friendly space for your future baby. A social worker will visit your home to assess the environment and ensure it’s safe and suitable for a child. While this may seem daunting, don’t worry. We have prepared some useful tips that can help you prepare your home for the inspection. 

Step 4: Finish the Adoption Education Program

If you’re thinking about how to adopt a baby in Louisiana, you may also be wondering about the specific challenges of raising an adopted child. St. Elizabeth Foundation understands that knowledge is power when providing a safe and loving home for your new child. This is why adoptive parents are required to complete an adoption education program. The program imparts important information about parenting, attachment, bonding, and openness in adoption. This education program equips you with the skills and knowledge you need to provide the best possible care for your baby.

Step 5: Match With a Birth Mother

Building a connection with a birth mother is integral to the adoption process. St. Elizabeth Foundation will assist you in creating an adoption profile, which will be shared with birth mothers. This profile allows you to share information about your family, traditions, and why you’ve chosen adoption. It’s a way for birth mothers to learn about potential adoptive parents, fostering a sense of trust and connection during this life-changing decision.

Step 6: Understand Your Legal Responsibilities

Adoption comes with various legal responsibilities for adopting parents and birth mothers, and it’s essential to be informed about your legal rights. The type of adoption can directly influence this. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer three types of adoption:

  • In a closed adoption, no contact is maintained between the birth mother and the adoptive family.
  • In a semi-open adoption, limited information and communication may be shared.
  • In an open adoption, the birth mother and adoptive family maintain an ongoing relationship. 

St. Elizabeth Foundation empowers birth mothers to choose the type of adoption that best suits their needs and the well-being of their babies. No matter the openness or confidentiality of the adoption, we will help you understand your rights in the process.

Step 7: Finalize Your Adoption

Once the adoption process reaches its final stage, St. Elizabeth Foundation will help you navigate the legalities and court proceedings necessary to finalize the adoption. In open adoptions, you may also be introduced to the birth mother, allowing you to establish a connection and build a unique and beautiful extended family.

Wondering How to Adopt a Baby in Louisiana? St. Elizabeth Foundation Can Help.

Adopting a baby is a remarkable journey, and St. Elizabeth Foundation is committed to providing unwavering support and guidance. If you have more questions about how to adopt a baby in Louisiana, don’t hesitate to contact St. Elizabeth Foundation for more information about the process or to begin your application. You can send a message or call 225-769-8888. Your dream of expanding your family and providing a loving home to a child is within reach with St. Elizabeth Foundation by your side.