How Does Open Adoption Affect the Child? [Adoptee Quotes]

You love your baby, and choosing open adoption doesn’t change that. In fact, it’s one of the most loving decisions you can make.

Still, you may not be sure about moving forward with open adoption. Many expectant mothers worry whether staying in their child’s life will help or hurt them.

In this article, we’ll explore how open adoption affects a child emotionally and mentally. You’ll hear from adoptees themselves and learn how our agency supports ongoing relationships. If you’re ready to talk to someone, you can fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION.

How Does Open Adoption Benefit the Child?

Research shows that adopted children in open adoptions tend to have higher self-esteem, less confusion and fewer struggles with identity. These kids are not left wondering where they came from or why they were adopted — they already know.

Here’s how open adoption benefits your child:

They are loved by two families.
“Adoption means you have two family,” one adopted child explained. “One is the family that gave you life, and the other family is the family that gave you a home.”
They grow up with a stronger sense of identity.
“Why my parents adopted me is because my birth mom had one child and she worked a lot, so she gave me to my other family,” said 7-year-old Alexander. “Now I live with them, and I like my life.”
They avoid feelings of abandonment.
Because they have an ongoing relationship with you, they understand the decision was made out of love. “My birth parents, like a lot of birth parents, are off living cool lives — they completed their education and career goals, they’re both married and have families,” said Diana, an adoptee. “They made an incredibly tough call, but it opened up a lot of opportunities for all of us, and that’s something I’ve always respected.”

Is Open Adoption Better for the Baby Long-Term?

If you’re considering adoption, you may wonder if open adoptions are better for the child.

Open adoption gives your child the lifelong benefit of understanding their story from the beginning. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your child is safe, thriving, and still connected to you.

Of course, every adoption is unique, and there’s no "perfect" way to do it. But open adoption offers a flexible, supported path that prioritizes the well-being of everyone — especially your child.

Is Open Adoption Confusing for Kids?

The short answer is no, open adoption doesn’t confuse the child.

Kids understand a lot more than people often give them credit for. With honest, age-appropriate conversations, they grow up seeing adoption as normal.

Take it from Cole, who was adopted as a newborn. “It’s just like you’re growing up knowing how to spell your name,” he said. “I’m growing up knowing that I was adopted.”

Children in open adoptions typically feel that their story is special — not confusing. It’s part of who they are, and they’ve always known it.

How Do Adopted Children Feel About Open Adoption?

So, what do adoptees think about open adoption?

The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But many adopted kids feel reassured knowing their birth parents are still in their lives in some way. They feel loved and wanted by both families.

Adoptees often say that open adoption gives them clarity and peace. They don’t have to imagine who you are because they know you. That connection makes a big difference in how they see themselves and their story.

How an Adoption Agency Can Support the Child’s Well-Being

Choosing the right adoption agency makes all the difference. Our agency is here to make sure your child is happy, safe and loved in an open adoption plan that includes you.

After placement, we continue to:

Ensure that the adoptive family is meeting all post-placement requirements and that your child is adjusting well
Help facilitate ongoing contact between you and the adoptive family

When you choose American Adoptions, you won't have to walk this path alone. To learn more about how we can help, fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION now.

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