Adoption.

What is Adoption like in Alberta?

Open adoption is the sole form of adoption in Alberta. In this process, birth parents and adoptive parents maintain contact during and after the adoption. Birth parents determine their preferred level of contact, which may include exchanging letters and photos, occasional visits, or ongoing direct interaction.

Open adoption allows ongoing communication between birth and adoptive parents. Research shows that this continued contact leads to greater satisfaction for birth parents and supports healthier adjustment for adopted children.[1] Studies also indicate that openness helps birth parents adjust after placement and improves their perceptions of adoptive families, while supporting positive social and emotional outcomes for children.[2]

Contacting an Adoption Agency

The first step in an open adoption is for the birth mother to contact an adoption agency. We recommend Amaris Adoptions for their commitment to the well-being of the mother and baby.

Once the birth mother contacts an adoption agency, a social worker will guide her through the process and help determine the most suitable type of adoption. Social workers also address any concerns and provide counseling or emotional support to ensure the birth mother’s well-being throughout the adoption journey.

Creating an Adoption Plan

The next step in an open adoption is to create an adoption plan.

An adoption plan outlines how the child will be placed for adoption according to the birth mother’s wishes. An adoption plan is not final and can be cancelled within 10 days after the child’s birth if the mother decides to change her mind. To change or cancel the plan during this period, the birth mother should contact her social worker or the agency.

When making an adoption plan, the birth mother can select the adoptive family. She may consider factors such as religion, cultural background, family values, and desired level of future contact. Birth parents can review profiles and choose the family they feel is best for their child.

An adoption plan reflects a thoughtful decision and provides a clear strategy for placing the child with an adoptive family.

Selecting the Right Adoptive Family

After creating an adoption plan, the birth parents meet prospective adoptive families through a social worker. Once matched, both parties can meet, build a relationship, and get to know one another before the baby is born.[5] The birth parents then create a hospital plan, deciding how the delivery and the immediate moments after birth will proceed. They may choose to involve the adoptive family or keep these moments private, based on their preferences.

After placement, contact is initially limited due to the emotional adjustment for both parties.[6] Birth parents and adoptive families may communicate by email or text, and over time, contact often becomes more frequent. When both parties are ready, the first post-placement visit will take place.

Birth parents determine the frequency of contact with the child. Once they turn 18, the child may choose the level of contact they wish to maintain with their birth parents.

Open adoption in Alberta offers a flexible, supportive process that prioritizes the child’s well-being and respects the preferences of both birth and adoptive families. There are typically no costs for birth mothers, and some agencies provide financial assistance for pregnancy-related expenses and support services. Many prospective families across Alberta are ready to provide safe and caring homes. Through ongoing communication and careful planning, open adoption can foster positive, lasting relationships. For more information, contact us.