From the moment they begin to understand their adoption, many children begin to have questions about their beginnings. The name they are given at birth can have a profound impact on this journey.

Choosing a name is a significant decision for any parent, but in adoption, it holds even greater weight. Whether you are an expectant parent or adoptive family, you may be wondering how naming the baby works.

Keep reading for helpful tips on navigating the complex terrain of naming an adopted child.

Who Names the Child?

The short answer is both the birth and adoptive parents name the child. There are many different scenarios.

Birth parents can choose a name if they want to. Not all birth parents do, and that is their choice.

Adoptive parents can keep the original name or choose a new one.

Many times, the expectant parent and adoptive family collaborate on a name. Some of our families choose a first name and ask the birth parents to choose the middle name. Others make a joint decision on both names. This can help build the relationship and give them something fun to talk about.

Regardless of who names the child, we encourage our expectant parents and adoptive families to have open, honest discussions about naming the child. An unexpected name change can be hurtful or feel like a betrayal of trust, so it’s important to be on common ground and have the same expectations.

What Name Goes on the Birth Certificate?

Adopted children have two birth certificates. The first, known as the original birth certificate (OBC), is issued with the name(s) of the biological parent(s) and the name they chose for their child. In Texas, the state will issue a new birth certificate after the adoption is finalized, known as the amended birth certificate, will have the child’s new name (if different), and the adoptive parents’ names.

The original birth certificate is initiated at the hospital and the birth mother gives the name they chose for the child. If the father is present and involved, he too can be listed on the birth certificate. If they are married, he is already considered to be a legal father and can be listed if he is present and willing to sign the paperwork. If they are not married, he can sign a Statement of Paternity and the birth certificate and be listed on the OBC as well.

In Texas, original birth certificates for adoptees are sealed. Adoption Advocates provides copies of the original birth certificates to the birth parents as well as the adoptive family, so that this information is not lost.

The Importance of Naming

Biological parents who choose adoption aren’t able to give much to their child. The child may inherit their eye color or their laugh or their curly hair, but those aren’t choices made by the birth parent.

A name, however, is different.

A name is an intentional choice given by a parent to a child, and it’s one of the last choices she will be able to make.

The name given to a child by their birth parent(s) can help them feel connected to their biological roots.

Naming a child in open adoption is just one of the tricky situations that can arise. Adoption Advocates is here to guide our expectant/birth parents and adoptive families at every step of the way. If you have questions about open adoption or the process, please reach out to us at (512) 477-1122.