Mother's Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring the women who have shaped our lives with love, care, and guidance. While many of us celebrate our own mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures on this day, it's also an opportunity to recognize and appreciate another group of remarkable women: birth mothers. The role of a birth mother is often complex and deeply emotional. These are the women who made the courageous decision to place their children for adoption, choosing a path of love and selflessness for the well-being of their babies. Their choice is one of the most profound acts of love imaginable, and Mother's Day offers a chance to honor and celebrate their bravery, strength, and sacrifice. Recognizing Her on Mother’s Day Celebrating your child's birth mom on Mother's Day can be a beautiful way to acknowledge her role in your family's story and show gratitude for the gift she has given. Here are some heartfelt ways to celebrate and honor birth moms on this special day: If your adoption is open: Invite her to spend that Saturday before Mother’s Day with you doing something she loves. For over 30 years, the Saturday before Mother’s Day has been recognized as National Birth Mother’s Day. If she lives nearby, consider inviting her to your Mother’s Day festivities. If not, invite her virtually to your event. If you have her address, send her a Mother’s Day card with a small gift. Gifts could include a locket with her child’s photo, a letter and picture from her child, or a packet of Forget-Me-Not seeds to remind her you’ll never forget her. If your adoption is semi-open: Send a card and gift through your adoption coordinator at Adoption Angels. Have the agency arrange a meeting at the office if you live nearby. Consider planting a tree or flower in her honor at your home. You could post a message on social media thanking “our birth mother” for her extraordinary courage. Add the hashtag #NationalBirthMothersDay. For older children, consider creating a brief video of them honoring their first mother and letting her know they love her. Create a Memory Book Mother’s Day is the time to highlight some of the other special moments. A hardbound book is a perfect way to say, “thank you.” Online businesses such as Mixbook , Shutterfly , and Picaboo let you create beautiful memory books. Companies like Kith and Kin let you share the book's creation with family members so they can add memories, too. Adoption Angels asks adoptive parents to share pictures and letters every month for the first six months, then two times a year until the child reaches the age of 18. Although they send the required photos, adoptive parents have many others that aren’t shared. Include photos of your birth mother and her child or other milestones and special occasions if possible. Remind Your Child of Their Birth Story Retelling your child's adoption story is essential. You want them to honor and love their birth mothers and acknowledge the unique role that they play in their lives. Your child’s birth mother was selfless and helped create your family. Recognize her as a significant figure who has contributed to the richness and diversity of your family's story. Knowing their story from an early age makes adoption normal and seen in a positive light. It also lets them know just how special and loved they are by so many. Talk about their birth mother, pray for her, and mention her with kindness. Instill in your children a love for her, especially on Mother’s Day.  Do You Have Questions About Adoption? Whether you are a woman facing an unplanned pregnancy or a couple wanting to adopt, a member of our staff is happy to answer your questions. We’ve assisted birth mothers and potential adoptive parents for over 40 years. For expectant mothers, please fill out our confidential online contact form , and we will contact you shortly. If you are a couple wanting more information about adoption, please start the process here . To all of our birth mothers and adoptive mothers, we wish you a very Happy Mother’s Day!

As the realization that you are unexpectedly pregnant begins to sink in, you have a big decision to make. If you are considering making an adoption plan for your child, find an adoption agency that offers one-on-one guidance and attention. You deserve the best care possible. Deciding If Adoption Is Right For You The options of parenting or placing your child for adoption are complicated. How do you decide what’s best for you? Discuss the pros and cons with someone you trust and learn as much as possible. You want to be able to make a confident decision. To know if adoption is your best option, talk with an adoption agency that will take the time to explain the process. Their adoption coordinator should be involved in your life and work closely to help you find the right solution. Questions To Consider As you begin evaluating adoption agencies, ask some of the following questions: What type of services do they provide a prospective birth mother? How will they handle communication with you? What kind of adoption plans do they offer? Are their services free? Who chooses the adoptive family? How are they licensed? Can they help you if you’ve already given birth? Learn More About Adoption Angels At Adoption Angels, we offer the highest level of care for our expectant and birth mothers. We treat all our clients with the respect and dignity they deserve. You become family, not a case number. A licensed adoption agency only requires the agency to meet with the birth mother twice during her pregnancy. Our adoption counselors meet weekly with the women we serve, preferably in person. Our agency offers various free services and assistance to help an expectant mother during her pregnancy. At Adoption Angels, you can receive the following: Free Living expenses, including Rent, Utilities, Food, and other necessities Free Medical care, including Prenatal, Hospital visits, and Delivery Free Counseling to help you throughout your adoption journey and beyond? Free Transportation to and from the agency, doctor’s appointments, and the hospital 24/7 Care and Support to assist you at any time Free L egal services Free Resources Whether you are expecting, or you’ve already given birth, you should be the one to select the potential adoptive couple to raise your child. We'll provide portfolios of loving and qualified families to choose from when you make an open or semi-open adoption plan. Adoption Angels is a licensed adoption agency regulated by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. We must follow and meet the minimum standards for a child-placing agency set forth by the Child-Care Licensing Division. Of course, we go above and beyond with our services. Contact Us Your first visit with us is purely informational. We’ll discuss your current situation and explain the adoption process. We want you to be able to make a confident decision. If you wish to learn more about adoption, call or text us 24/7 at (210) 227-2229 or fill out our confidential contact form . We look forward to meeting you!

Only another adoptive parent understands an adoptive parent's challenges. You wish your child were your own, but you know another mom and dad is out there. Learning to explain the difference between “Mom” and “Birth Mom” is one of those challenges. Will it confuse my child? How will it affect our relationship? Will they still love me? Sometimes, imagined threats keep us from explaining things simply. Here are some thoughts about how to explain what a birth mother is to your child. Do I Have to Discuss the “Birds and the Bees”? No matter the topic, every conversation with your child has to be age-appropriate. Beginning the adoption conversation with your child when they are very young can help you delay the “where do babies come from?” talk until the right time. Some parents use unique names like “Tummy Mommy” or “Belly Mom” for their birth mothers. These names may spark questions about why a baby would be in a mommy’s tummy or belly, but most young children just accept the fact. What Are Other Names? “First Mother” is another name some families use. Of course, the problem with this name is it implies you are the “Second Mom.” Another problematic name is “Natural Mother” because it presumes you are unnatural. It is entirely acceptable to use your birth mother’s first name to identify her to your child. You can also add the word “Momma” to the front of her name. Some birth mothers consider themselves sisters to the adoptive mom and suggest being called “Auntie [First Name].” Does How We Refer to Her Matter? Names and titles matter. Regardless of your adoption situation, your birth mother deserves the utmost respect. If they can’t meet physically, your child needs to connect to their birth mother emotionally and mentally for the sake of their adopted identity. How Do I Explain? Start young and find creative ways to present adoption. Make an “All About You” book with photos and letters from your child’s biological parents. If you only email or text, copy and save them in the book. We offer other clever ways to introduce adoption to your child. Read How Will the Adoptive Parents Tell My Child About Adoption? to learn more. As your child grows, they will enjoy the mutual love and care you and their birth mother expressed. Whether you are expecting or you’ve already given birth, you should be the one to select the potential adoptive couple to raise your child. We'll provide portfolios of loving and qualified families to choose from when you make an open or semi-open adoption plan. Find a way to be relaxed and comfortable talking about their birth mother. As questions arise, give only the information you know to be true and necessary. It’s easy, when nervous, to say more than you need to. Can I Get Advice From Adoption Angels? As part of our service to potential adoptive parents, we provide thorough adoption education, support, and training. We have several adoptive family resources we encourage you to take advantage of. If you have questions or want to begin working with Adoption Angels, fill out our online Contact Form or call (210) 227-2229. We would be honored to travel with you on your adoption journey. 

If you have discovered you are unexpectedly pregnant, you are most likely trying to figure out your options. We understand this is a difficult time. When deciding what to do, you must consider your emotional and physical support, finances, plans for the future, and current responsibilities. As you consider your next step, think about how placing your child for adoption can help your situation. 1. You Lack Physical and Emotional Support Parenting, especially single parenting, is difficult. Parenthood becomes overwhelming without the assistance of a spouse, partner, or family member. Well-meaning people say they intend to help you when the baby comes, but they don’t understand the amount of help you need. It’s important to have a solid network of people around you who can assist you. If you lack support, consider making an adoption plan for your child. With adoption, you can choose a family to raise your child. At Adoption Angels, we offer free counseling to help you emotionally through your adoption journey. We are available to you 24/7 with care and support. 2. You Have Financial Needs Did you know that while you put together your adoption plan, Adoption Angels can provide financial assistance for pregnancy-related expenses? Through our agency, you can receive: Free living expenses for rent, utilities, food, and maternity clothing Free medical services, including prenatal care and delivery Free transportation to and from doctor’s visits and the agency. Free counseling Free legal services No reputable adoption agency should ever ask you to pay for adoption services, but there is financial help available for you. 3. You Want to Pursue Plans for the Future When you place your baby for adoption, you can focus on your own personal and professional goals. This can include finishing school, pursuing a career, or improving your financial situation. Because of a federal government ruling called Title IX, schools have to make special arrangements for pregnant women to continue classes and class assignments. Although having your baby will require time away, you can move forward after you place your child. Our counselors promise to walk this road with you. Making an adoption plan is hard, but we will be there to provide emotional and financial support. 4. Already Caring For Others If you already have other children in your home, discovering an unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming. You know the necessary finances, energy, and time isn’t there to raise another little one. There is no shame in realizing you’ve reached the end of your abilities and need to place this next child for adoption. It is a difficult decision, but by choosing an open or semi-open plan, you can still gain information, have a relationship, and know they are safe and loved. 5. The Need to Focus on You Do you feel you are too young or too old to parent? Perhaps you never wanted to be a parent, your overall physical or mental health isn’t good, or you worry about your child’s safety. All of these issues can be obstacles to successful parenting. It could be more important to focus on yourself at this time. As the birth mother, you choose the adoption plan and pick the potential adoptive couple. You can build a relationship with your child and have the ability to explain why you chose adoption for them. They, in turn, can connect with their birth family and ask important questions. Adoption, as well as your other choices for your unexpected pregnancy, is a difficult decision. Our adoption counselors are available to explore this option with you. Contact Adoption Angels to discuss the benefits of choosing adoption. We’re here to offer the hope and support you need. Fill out our confidential Contact Form , and we will get in touch with you shortly.

For many, adoption is uncharted territory. It’s not uncommon to know an adopted person, but understanding the adoption process is another story. Whether you are a woman considering placing your child for adoption or a couple wanting to adopt, keeping an open mind is critical. Opportunities you never thought possible might present themselves, and you will want to be ready. An Expectant Woman’s Journey An unplanned pregnancy can be a difficult road to navigate. As you choose to continue your pregnancy, you have many decisions in front of you. You may have experienced opposition from your family, friends, or partner, and the fear of judgment and pressure can make you feel isolated and alone. As you contemplate placing your child for adoption, our goal is to help you understand and discuss the different options with you. If adoption is right for you, then you have the opportunity to select the potential adoptive couple for your child and meet them to ensure you feel they are the best. As you look through the bios of couples, keep an open mind. You never know what might grab your attention. Simple things can make a world of difference. Are they music fans? Do they love Chinese food? Are they part of a big extended family? Make sure what is special to you is important to them. Be open to the type of adoption plan, too. There are many ways to stay in touch with your child and their family, but you may need more time for a completely open adoption, or maybe you are more comfortable with a semi-open adoption. The choice is totally up to you. An Adoptive Couple’s Journey Just like a woman facing an unplanned pregnancy, your road to adoption has been challenging. As you move forward in the process, it is vital to keep an open mind. Resist preconceived ideas of what your family will look like. Creating a family through adoption isn’t a spreadsheet. There are no columns to check off or tabulations to make. More than anyone in the process, you need to be completely open. Are you willing to adopt a child with drug exposure? A different race? Special needs? Be honest, but be open. You must also be open to the adoption plan the expectant mother wants. If a completely open adoption frightens you and you insist on a semi-open adoption only, you limit who will view your bio. Make the stretch and discuss your fears with your adoption coordinator. How Adoption Angels Can Pave the Way At Adoption Angels, the expectant mother and the potential adoptive couple become family. We want to get to know both of you as closely as possible. Our adoption caseworkers strive to provide the highest level of care, comfort, and support. For women contemplating an adoption plan, we provide services and assistance at no cost to you. A recent national survey found that birth mothers who received accurate information about the adoption process were more satisfied. The same survey determined the number one reason birth mothers were more satisfied with their decision was because they didn’t feel coerced. At Adoption Angels , we let you decide every aspect of the process. We will answer your questions, discuss your situation, and give you the freedom to choose. Fill out our Confidential Contact Form online or call or text us 24/7 at 210-227-2229. We also provide education, support, and guidance for potential adoptive couples. We invite you to review our services and eligibility requirements. When you’re ready, fill out our Start the Process form. We’re thankful both of you have chosen Adoption Angels.

Entrusting your child to the adoptive parents you’ve chosen takes courage, resolve, and a tremendous amount of love and support. You gain confidence by knowing this is the right decision. But you also need to know that the love and support you received before you gave birth won’t end. What Is the Journey of Adoption? Did you know the meaning of the word “explorer” is “someone who travels to a place that other people do not know much about in order to find out what is there”? As you explore adoption for your unplanned pregnancy, you’re traveling territory you are most likely unfamiliar with. As an expectant mother, you are on a unique journey that many others are unfamiliar with. Because they don’t understand the process or the reasons for choosing adoption, they may accuse you of “giving up,” “giving away,” or “not taking responsibility.” Nothing can be further from the truth. When a birth mother chooses adoption, she plans her child’s future. She places her child first in her life. It is, likely, the most loving and difficult thing you will ever do. There will be highs as you select the adoptive couple and lows as you question whether you can proceed. Feeling assured, doubtful, hopeful, and sad are all part of the journey. How Should a Birth Mother Be Supported? There are many ways an expectant mother should be supported during her adoption journey. But from the beginning, you should receive free physical and emotional support. Explaining the Process A reputable adoption agency thoroughly explains the adoption process. The agency should ensure you understand your commitment before making a final decision. You should learn about the different adoption plans available and their pros and cons. The steps should be clearly laid out, from selecting adoptive parents and receiving services to signing your legal paperwork. Providing Free Services Every state allows free pregnancy-related services for an expectant mother who chooses to place her child for adoption. Your agency is responsible for ensuring that you receive proper medical care, food, housing, maternity clothing, and counseling. In addition, they guarantee all of your legal expenses are covered. Supporting You Emotionally Like all your choices for your unplanned pregnancy, making an adoption plan involves loss. You will experience grief and should be fully aware of this beforehand. This decision is never made easily. You need counseling throughout your adoption journey and beyond. You need to count on having care and support available to you 24/7. Your adoption coordinator should be ready to assist you with answers to your questions or provide a listening ear. You should always feel supported in the adoption process. Once you complete the adoption, you should continue to receive care and support. The agency should provide resources for your future along with facilitating and supporting your continued relationship with the adoptive parents as your child grows. How Can Adoption Angels Assist a Birth Mother? At Adoption Angels, our caring staff is ready to explain the adoption process, provide you with free pregnancy-related services, and emotionally walk alongside you. We promise you will never feel like you are facing this decision alone. If you are unexpectedly pregnant and want to learn more about making an adoption plan for your child and the services we provide, call or text us at (210) 227-2229. Or fill out our confidential online contact form . We’ll be in touch shortly.

Although every adoption situation is unique, experts say openness in adoption is the best for everyone involved. There are many different ways to begin the discussion, but adoptive parents who start talking about adoption early gain their children's trust. The Joyful Opportunity to Adopt For a potential adoptive couple, adoption is a complex process. Only genuinely committed couples will complete the requirements. These couples have longed to be parents and are overjoyed when an expectant mother chooses them. They are excited to bring a little one into their lives and feel grateful for being chosen. Their love for that child and the mother that gave birth to them begins immediately. A Birthmother’s Story The more the adoptive couple knows about the birth parents and their families, the more they can share with their child. Some birth mothers want to keep their stories private, while others want to give as much information as possible. A birth mother can share her family’s history, heritage, and other information with her child if she chooses an open adoption plan. She can explain why she decided to place them for adoption and assure her child of her love and commitment. When Should Adoptive Parents Begin Talking About Their Child’s Adoption? Many experts encourage adoptive parents to begin talking about their child’s adoption story from the moment they arrive home. They suggest using age-appropriate and positive adoption language. The following are just some of the ways adoptive parents can begin the conversation: Reading books such as “Some Babies Are Adopted,” “I’ve Loved You Since Forever,” and “Happy Adoption Day.” Create a Life Book including photos and letters from the birth parents and information about their adoption journey. Child’s play is a wonderful way to introduce adoption. Using dolls or stuffed animals to “adopt” one another helps a child to imagine the adoption experience. Having occasional in-person or online visits between the birth family and adoptive family helps the child to recognize they belong to a bigger family. Using terms like “Tummy Mommy,” “First Mom,” and “Momma (First Name)” are ways to begin referencing the birth mother. Working With Adoption Angels Reassure your kids that you love them and will not be placing them for adoption. Let them know you are committed to caring for them and providing all they need. As you speak about their adopted sibling, tell your kids they will always have that brother or sister as part of their lives, and you will always be that child’s mother. Encourage an atmosphere of love whenever you talk about them Talk To Us At Adoption Angels , we encourage open adoptions because we believe openness is the best for everyone. We regularly suggest an open adoption plan when we counsel our birth and potential adoptive families. Adoption involves a great deal of trust. Our top priority is to provide you with the most compassionate care and support that goes above and beyond what is required. You’re not just a client. You’re family. Fill out our confidential contact form or call or text us 24/7 at (210) 227-2229.

Honesty is always the best policy when explaining to your child or children that you will be placing their sibling (or half-sibling) for adoption. No matter how you present it, describing adoption and what it means for the family is a complex and challenging discussion. We’ve got some suggestions to help you begin the conversation. Always Talk About Adoption Openly Secrets tend to build fear. Your children, whatever age, need to hear about adoption as soon as possible. If you haven’t made up your mind, avoid introducing the idea until you are sure that is the direction you want to go. Once you’ve begun the adoption process with an agency , openly discuss your decision and the steps you are taking. One way that can help open the lines of communication about adoption is to watch an adoption-related movie or show. Here is a list of a few of our favorites: Despicable Me Elf Lilo and Stitch Kung Fu Panda Man of Steel Stuart Little Tarzan T.O.T.S Doc McStuffins Dinosaur Train Use Appropriate Adoption Language A phrase such as “giving up (or away)” can confuse a kid. Instead, use terms like “I am making an adoption plan” or “I am placing your little brother or sister for adoption.” If your children are young, avoid the details such as “finding a potential adoptive couple” and opt for “finding another mommy and daddy.” Remember, only you know what your child is able to process and you can always talk to your adoption counselor for more suggestions, in fact, we encourage it. Don’t Hide Your Feelings Placing a child for adoption can be stressful and emotional in any situation. Make sure your biological children who remain with you know you are struggling. Explain to your kids why you have to make this painful decision. Are you not able to financially provide for another child? Has the father of this child abandoned you? Do you not have the physical support of someone to watch your kids while you work? All of these are valid reasons. Let your kids know where you are in the process and, if age-appropriate, bring them into the decision-making. Discuss the different family profiles and ask for their feedback regarding which family would be best. Assure the Kids in Your Home That They Are Safe Reassure your kids that you love them and will not be placing them for adoption. Let them know you are committed to caring for them and providing all they need. As you speak about their adopted sibling, tell your kids they will always have that brother or sister as part of their lives, and you will always be that child’s mother. Encourage an atmosphere of love whenever you talk about them. Talk To Us At Adoption Angels, our caring staff is prepared to listen and help you sort through your options. We offer professional one-on-one guidance to you and your family as you work through the process. Even after placing your child, we continue to counsel and support you. We never want you to feel alone in your decision. Fill out our confidential contact form to learn more about adoption as an option. You can also call or text us 24/7 at (210) 227-2229 if you want to speak to someone first. We are here for you.

An unplanned pregnancy crowds out everything else in your mind. Focusing on work, school, paying bills, and other responsibilities takes a back seat. You need help deciding your future and taking some financial burden off your shoulders. A reputable adoption agency can help you with your expenses and your next step. No matter who you choose to work with, placing a child for adoption is free for the expectant or birth mother. Are You Considering Placing Your Child For Adoption? When parenting is not an option, making an adoption plan can be the answer for your unexpected pregnancy. There are many benefits to choosing adoption for your child. With an open adoption plan, you have the opportunity to: Select the family that will adopt your child Have a relationship with your child and their adoptive parents Be assured they’re loved and cared for Enjoy your child without the day-to-day responsibilities Give your child more opportunities Did You Know Financial Assistance Is Available? Almost all U.S. states allow potential adoptive parents to assist a birth mother with expenses. There are limits to what an adoptive couple pays for, but when you plan a private or independent domestic adoption, you can receive assistance for pregnancy-related services and materials. Medical Expenses First and foremost, a birth mother must receive quality prenatal care. The Affordable Care Act is required to pay for pregnancy and childbirth expenses. If she is not enrolled in the program, she may qualify for Medicaid. If a birth mother is insured, the adoptive parents pay her co-pays. Medical coverage includes prenatal and postnatal visits, labor and delivery, and counseling. The birth mother’s mental health is as important as her physical health. Maternity Clothes & Hygiene Pregnancy comes with many physical changes to a woman’s body. Expectant mothers will receive help with maternity wear and hygiene products. Transportation and Travel Traveling to doctor’s visits, the hospital, and the adoption agency, can be difficult for some birth mothers if they don’t have access to transportation. Travel costs are included in a birth parent’s expenses. Housing Although birth mother expenses cannot include permanent housing, Texas does allow payment for rent, utilities, groceries, and the phone bill. Legal Fees There are various fees and court costs that must be paid to ensure the agency handles the adoption legally. Attorneys are retained for the birth mother, her child, and the adoptive parents. Depending on the situation, the state, and the attorneys, legal fees can be very expensive. How Adoption Angels Can Help You We want you to have proper medical care, a safe place to live, transportation, and guidance through professional counseling. To us, you’re not just a client; you are family. Whether you are expecting or have already given birth, our assistance is available at no cost. In addition to the above services, our staff can assist you with care and support 24/7. Do You Have Questions About Adoption? We want to hear about your situation and determine how we can best assist you. If you would like to know more about the adoption process, read “ What to Look for When Choosing an Adoptive Family for Your Child .”