We are thrilled to announce that Shelby Martin has accepted a position as an Adoption Assessor with our agency! Many of you already know Shelby and are familiar with her work. She is now expanding her professional credentials by adding a Masters in Social Work.
Your journey to parenthood has not been a typical one (understatement). Most couples have 9 months to focus intensely on educating themselves regarding the developmental stages and needs of their baby's all important first year. You will not be given the benefit of "nature's time table". And, while it may [...]
If you have borrowed a used infant car seat, please check to see if there has been a recall on the seat. Keep rechecking every 6 months. If you plan to buy a new infant car seat, you may want to purchase 2 bases (one for each car). Also, you [...]
Some of our families over the years have been very successful in obtaining grants to fund the costs associated with their adoption. While we have spent some time looking at the reviews of these organizations, we would caution you to complete your own due diligence and proceed cautiously. Under no [...]
Placements can occur unexpectedly and on one hour's notice! While it may be emotionally difficult to make preparation for a baby that has not yet arrived, it is necessary. If both parents work, now is the best time to research day care options. Waiting lists are VERY long and the [...]
This subject may seem inconsequential when compared to our weekly posts, but in time it will become one of the most important, please learn from my mistakes! Be prepared to record those all important first minutes, days, weeks, and years in a method that you will be able to enjoy in the [...]
Before you finalize your adoption in Hamilton County Probate Court, you will be required to have a legally enforceable guardianship agreement in place. This may be part of your will or it may be a stand alone document. Please consult your attorney regarding preparation of this document. Ohio has very [...]
Over 15 years ago, Ohio enacted administrative rules which shifted the burden from attorney and adoption agencies to locate the father of a child and secure his consent, to requiring any man who believes he has fathered a child to register with the Putative Father Registry if he wishes to [...]
You will be required to have a scheduled pediatrician appointment within 3 days of leaving the hospital with your baby. The hospital will not discharge you without confirmation of this appointment. Therefore, it is important for you to select a pediatrician now and confirm that the pediatrician is accepting new patients. [...]
Below is a list of necessary baby items you should have on hand. Often we experience unexpected calls from hospitals and in each case, the family chosen was not prepared with the items necessary to immediately begin caring for a baby. If you have not already done so, PLEASE get these items: [...]
