Can a Minor Place a Baby for Adoption in Arkansas? [3 Big Questions]

If you have questions about adoption for teen pregnancy because you’re a minor who’s become unexpectedly pregnant, American Adoptions has answers.

If you’re a teenager, asking “Do you have to be a certain age to ‘give your baby up’ for adoption in Arkansas?” the simple answer is no.

You likely weren’t planning on children anytime soon and aren’t in a position to raise one.  If you’re a teenager considering putting your baby up for adoption because you don’t feel ready to parent, American Adoptions can help. Adoption is always an option for you, even as a teenager.

When it comes to your pregnancy, you should be the only one deciding how you handle it. Our adoption specialists have helped many young expectant mothers in your situation, and we would love to help you find the perfect adoptive family for your baby. You can call 1-800-ADOPTION to speak with a specialist today, and keep reading to learn more about your options for teenage pregnancy in Arkansas.

How to Put a Baby up for Adoption in Arkansas if You are a Teen

You might be asking, “How does a teenager ‘give a baby up’ for adoption in Arkansas?”

If you’re a teenager considering putting your child up for adoption in Arkansas, the adoption process is the same for you as it is for a legal adult. The control you have over your adoption will never be limited by the fact that you are a minor. You will always be in the driver’s seat when it comes to creating your adoption plan. If you’re not sure where to start, our adoption specialists will be by your side from start to finish.

Step 1: Create an Adoption Plan

If you do choose to “give a baby up” for adoption in Arkansas, you will be completely in charge of the way it happens. With American Adoptions, all prospective birth mothers craft their own adoption plans. During a time where you feel like you might not have a lot of control, being able to make your own choices during the adoption process can be encouraging. You will work with your own adoption specialist, who will help you make sure your wants and needs for your baby’s adoptions are met. She will guide you along each remaining step of the adoption process.

Step 2: Find the Perfect Family in Arkansas

Since you are in complete control of your adoption plan, one of the decisions you get to make is the family that will raise your child. You will be able to fill out a template with the qualities you would like the prospective adoptive family to have. Your adoption specialist will find adoptive family profiles that match your preferences and present them to you to review. You can review as many profiles as you need until you find an amazing family for your child.

American Adoptions is a national adoption agency, which means we work with families from all over the country. This will enable you to find the perfect family in a shorter amount of time. When you work with us, you will find the perfect family for your baby in no time.

You can click here to look through adoptive family profiles online today.

Step 3: Make a Hospital Plan

Part of your adoption plan is your hospital plan. Your hospital plan is a blueprint for your hospital stay on the day of the delivery.  This plan will include things such as:

• Which hospital your baby will be born at

• Who will be in the delivery room with you

• Who will hold the baby first

• Whether or not you will nurse your baby

• And more

In Arkansas, you can sign your adoption paperwork any time after the baby is born. It’s a lot to consider, but your adoption specialist will go over every detail of your stay to make it as comfortable as possible for you.

Your adoption specialist at American Adoptions will be able to provide personal support and guidance in a way that many other social workers cannot, because our staff is comprised of adoptees, birth parents and adoptive parents. The hospital stay is one of the most emotional parts of putting an infant up for adoption in Arkansas, and we personally understand what that is like because we have been there ourselves. Don’t be afraid to lean on your adoption specialist for the support you need during this time.

Step 4: Stay in Touch with Your Child and their Adoptive Family

Adoption doesn’t have to be goodbye forever. If you’re putting your baby up for adoption in Arkansas, you will always be a vital part of your baby’s story, and we do recommend that you maintain contact. As long as the adoptive family agrees with your communication preferences, you can witness or take part in your child’s life as much as you wish to.

Does A Minor Need Parents Permission To Give Baby Up For Adoption in Arkansas?
 

No, you do not need your parent’s permission to place your baby for adoption in Arkansas in most cases.

If you’re a teenager, you’re likely still living with your parents, so it’s important you disclose your decision to choose adoption with them. Your parents could be an invaluable part of your adoption support system. If you involve them in your adoption decision they may lend financial and emotional support.

If your parents do not support your decision, this will not always affect your adoption. You do not legally need their permission in many cases. This is your choice to make and yours alone. You know what’s best for you and your baby. If you are concerned that your parents will not support your decision, please reach out to an adoption specialist at 1-800-ADOPTION or contact a local adoption attorney.

Can a Minor Give a Child up for Adoption in Arkansas?

Yes. If you’re dealing with an unplanned pregnancy as a minor, you can always choose adoption. You will follow the same adoption process as expectant mothers who are legally an adult. In Arkansas you do not need your parents’ permission to choose adoption in most cases. However, involving your parents in your adoption process can be helpful in some cases.

 No matter how old you are, placing your baby for adoption is a brave and selfless decision.  American Adoptions has helped many minors find a loving family to adopt their baby and we can do the same for you.

Why Would a Teen Mom Put a Baby up for Adoption?

The most common reason teens choose to put their baby up for adoption is because they are not ready to be a parent. You are likely not financially independent or emotionally ready for the responsibility that comes with caring for a child. You’re at a point in your life where you’re still trying to figure yourself out.

Choosing adoption as a minor is valid and is a heroic decision to make for your baby. If you decide that you think you are ready to parent, it is well within your rights to change your mind at any point in the adoption process.

When you contact American Adoptions, our specialists will help you create an adoption plan that meets your needs. We can offer you resources and support no matter where you’re at in your pregnancy, and even after the baby has been born. Just a few of the benefits you will receive when you work with us are:

• Financial Assistance. As an expectant mother, placing your baby for adoption will come at no cost to you. Adoption is always free for birth parents. Depending on your circumstances, our adoption specialists can help you get the financial assistance you need to cover your pregnancy costs and living expenses.

• 24/7 Counseling. Even if you know that adoption is what’s best for you and your baby, it can come with some difficult emotions. We’re here for you. Our adoption specialists will be there to listen and help you cope with these feelings around the clock.

• The ability to choose the adoptive parents. You’ll be in charge of every part of your adoption plan. One of the many decisions you get to make is choosing the family that will raise your baby. Your adoption specialist will sit down with you to discuss your adoptive family preferences and will compile adoptive family profiles that match what you’re looking for. You will then be able to review these profiles until you find the perfect match for your baby.

• And more.

Many of our adoption specialists have firsthand adoption experience as birth parents, adoptive parents and adoptees. This unique perspective allows us to understand what you’re going through and provide you with the empathetic support you deserve. Regardless of your age, we will help you find the perfect adoptive family for your baby.

Start Your Adoption for Teenage Pregnancy

No matter how old you are you can choose to give your child the life possible with a loving family. We will be by your side every step of the way to lend you the support and resources you deserve. To get more information about how to “give a baby up” for adoption underage, contact us online today or call 1-800-ADOPTION at any time.

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