Will my stepchild know about the adoption in Maryland?

Yes, and that's a wonderful thing. In Maryland, children age 10 and older must actually consent to the adoption (Md. Code Fam. Law § 5-3A-18), so they'll definitely know.

For younger children, whether and how to tell them is your family's choice. Here's what we've seen over 34,000+ adoptions:

Most families do tell the child, because:

• Children often already know the stepparent isn't their "legal" parent
• The finalization hearing is a celebration — many families bring everyone
• Kids are typically overjoyed to be "officially" adopted
• It provides security and belonging

How families handle it:

• Some make "Adoption Day" an annual celebration
• Some get special certificates or gifts for the child
• Some let the child choose a new name

The court hearing itself is warm and positive. Many Maryland judges take photos with the family and congratulate the child. It's a beautiful moment.