We help expectant fathers plan for the future
When your girlfriend is pregnant, but neither of you had planned on a baby, you may feel scared, worried, unsure or confused. You might think, “But, I’m not ready to be a dad!” Whether you’ve been together for years or only a short time, an unexpected pregnancy can raise difficult questions for both of you. We help expectant fathers learn about their options, so that they can plan their next steps, along with their partner.
What if I’m not ready to be a dad?
If you don’t feel prepared for fatherhood, know that you are not alone. Many men feel this way when facing an unexpected pregnancy. Raising a child is a lifelong commitment, and that can feel daunting. That’s why it’s so important to take the time to learn about your options, evaluate your own circumstances with an honest eye, and think carefully about what you want for your child and for yourself.
Before making any decisions, fully prepare yourself with information. The better you understand your options, the more confident you’ll be as you and your partner plan your next steps.
If you suddenly find yourself an expectant father, there are two paths that you should take the time to explore.
- Parenting. Some couples decide to raise their child together. Others choose separate parenting arrangements or cooperative co-parenting. You may decide that fatherhood is a realistic option for you, depending on your relationship, financial situation, support system and long-term goals.
- Adoption. Some expectant fathers feel that adoption provides the best opportunities for their child and themselves. With modern adoption, the baby’s parents select a family to raise their child, while creating a plan that reflects their wishes and priorities.
As your baby’s father, your goal should be to honestly evaluate your situation and determine what will best serve your child’s future. Our Florida adoption counselors provide confidential, no-cost guidance for expectant fathers and mothers who want to explore their options. We can discuss your circumstances, answer questions, and help you better understand what each choice may look like for your future.
Learn about modern Florida adoption
Many expectant fathers are surprised to learn that making an adoption plan gives themselves and their girlfriends extensive control over important decisions.
- Choosing the adoptive family. You can review profiles of waiting families and choose the parents you want to raise your child.
- Creating an adoption plan. You and your girlfriend can document your preferences for what happens on delivery day, as well as what kind of contact you want to have with the adoptive family in the future.
- No financial cost to you. As the expectant father, making an adoption plan is completely free to you. All counseling and legal services are covered for you, along with adoption planning assistance and medical costs for your girlfriend and baby.
Expectant fathers play an important role
If you’re considering adoption for your baby, you already have your baby’s best interests at heart. Educating yourself about your options is an act of love for your child, as it will help you make important decisions to give your child an abundant, secure future.
If you’re looking for information about Florida adoption, our experienced counselors are available to answer your questions and provide support, without judgment or pressure. Contact us to talk to an experienced Legacy Adoption Services options counselor.
