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How to Get to Know the Adoptive Family?

Choosing adoption is a brave and selfless decision — and one of the most important parts of that journey is choosing the adoptive family. With the right adoption agency by your side, you don’t have to wonder if you made the right choice. You can feel confident and in control.

Our team will walk you through every step of building a relationship with the hopeful parents who may one day raise your child — whether that’s a phone call, video chat, or meeting in person with help preparing for questions to ask adoptive parents.

You get to decide how much you want to know about the adoptive family — and how much they know about you.

How to Get to Know the Adoptive Family in Michigan?

When you choose adoption, you are in charge of your entire journey. That includes choosing the adoptive family and deciding how you want to build a relationship with them.

American Adoptions empowers you with all the tools and support you need to make that connection — from guiding the first conversation to helping you maintain contact long after placement.

Here’s how you can begin getting to know hopeful adoptive parents before placement:

  • Introductory Conference Calls: Arranged by your specialist to help break the ice.
  • In-Person Meetings: If you’re comfortable, we can facilitate a safe, in-person meeting.
  • Ongoing Communication: Based on your preferences, this could include text, email, video chats, or letters.

Questions to Ask Adoptive Parents

Getting to know a family starts with asking the right questions. These questions can help you learn more about who they are beyond the profile and if they fit what you’re looking for in parents for your child.

Here are a few personal questions to ask adoptive parents:

  • What does a typical day look like in your home?

  • What are your hobbies, traditions, or favorite family activities?

  • How did you meet, and what made you decide to build a family through adoption?

  • What are your values when it comes to parenting?

  • How do you plan to incorporate adoption into your child’s life story?

Questions to Ask Potential Adoptive Parents

You’ll also want to ask questions to ask potential adoptive parents whether adopting privately or through an agency like American Adoptions:

  • Why do you want to adopt?
  • How will you talk to my child about their adoption story?
  • What type of relationship are you hoping to have with me?
  • Are you open to visits, letters, or phone calls after the adoption?
  • How do you feel about open adoption contact frequency changing over time?

Are There Questions to Not Ask Prospective Adoptive Parents?

Yes — while honesty and transparency are important, there are some questions that may make the conversation uncomfortable or cross boundaries. For example:

  • Questions about finances or income

  • Deep medical history not included in their profile

  • Political or religious beliefs if not relevant to your decision

  • Details about infertility or personal trauma

  • Questions that feel more like a test than an invitation to connect

Your adoption specialist can help you navigate these conversations with kindness and empathy.

Do I Get to Know the Adoptive Parents?

Absolutely — if you want to. In Michigan, the majority of adoptions today are open or semi-open, meaning you can build a relationship with the adoptive family both before and after placement.

Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Open Adoption: Ongoing direct contact like phone calls, texts, or visits.
  • Semi-Open Adoption: Mediated communication, often through the agency.
  • Closed Adoption: No contact, unless both parties decide otherwise later.

No matter your comfort level, our specialists are here to help you build the relationship you want. Here are some prompts to get the wheels turning on what you can talk about with hopeful adoptive families:

  • Tell them about your hobbies, your family, your interests and personality.

  • If you’re comfortable, talk about your pregnancy, doctor’s appointments and how you’re feeling.

  • Talk to your adoption specialist for more information about what to expect and questions the adoptive family may have for you. 

  • If you’re nervous, you may want to make a list of interesting things to share about yourself ahead of time.

Open Adoption Relationships

An open adoption relationship can be one of the most rewarding aspects of your journey. You may even become extended family to the people raising your child — sharing updates, milestones, and memories together.

Benefits of open adoption include:

  • Peace of mind knowing your child is safe and loved
  • Ongoing connection that helps your child understand their story
  • A lasting bond between you and the adoptive family
  • And much more

In Michigan, open adoption relationships are becoming more common and celebrated. Our agency facilitates healthy boundaries and encourages mutual respect, so everyone benefits from the connection.

How Do I Find the Perfect Adoptive Parents in Michigan? [3 Steps]

Finding the right adoptive family in Michigan is simpler than you might think. Here’s how it works:

We'll help you outline your preferences — from lifestyle and family values to location and contact frequency.

You'll get access to one of the largest selections of adoptive families in the country, including many in Michigan. Every family is thoroughly screened and excited to meet you.

Once you choose a family, we’ll help you connect with them through calls, emails, or meetings — at your pace.

Get the Support You Deserve

No one should walk this journey alone — and with American Adoptions, you don’t have to.

  • 24/7 counseling and emotional support
  • Financial assistance for rent, groceries, and more
  • The largest network of screened adoptive families
  • A personalized adoption plan that’s 100% yours

Whether you’re still considering your options or ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you choose a brighter future — for yourself, and for your baby.

Speak with a specialist now or schedule your free consultation.

 

Disclaimer
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