Open adoption refers to an adoption process in which the biological parents and adoptive parents have a level of openness, communication, and often contact between them. This means that the identities of the birth parents are known to the adoptive family, and there may be ongoing relationships or exchanges of information between them. The goal of an open adoption is typically to promote a sense of unity and connection for the child among all members of their family, while also respecting the rights and wishes of the biological parents. Open adoptions can vary in degree of openness, from limited contact through letters or photos, to more frequent direct interactions such as visits or phone calls. The level of openness is typically determined by mutual agreement between the birth and adoptive families, with the goal of providing a nurturing environment for the child while respecting their biological roots.