Editor's Note: Window on the Clearwater has joined the Wednesday's Child network to help spread the word about children that are waiting for families to give them the loving care that they need. Each Wednesday we will profile a different child. For more information about Wednesday's Child and how you can be involved check the web site at: http://www.idahowednesdayschild.org/.

Christopher

Age: 10

Profile provided by NWAE (Northwest Adoption Exchange)

Christopher, or Chris as he is sometimes called, is a sweet and affectionate boy with a great smile. Without hesitation, Christopher aims to please and helps out others. Chris is great at sharing and he loves animals. He loves to explore and play outside, as well as riding his bike, playing baseball, camping and fishing. He also likes to spend time reading and playing video games.

Christopher loves reading and enjoys mathematics in school. Though he is slightly behind in the subjects of reading, writing, and math, he has made great progress over the past year and will likely continue to improve with the help of a supportive family. Chris receives some services in school that help him with transitions, structure, focusing on friendships and coping skills. Chris needs a family who is capable of strong advocacy for him in school. With an adoptive family's commitment, encouragement and support, Christopher could go that much further academically!

Christopher is a very personable young man. He is friendly, polite and funny. There are times when Christopher can become withdrawn when he's overwhelmed with difficult emotions. However, if he's engaged in an activity that he likes, he will happily interact. Christopher is getting a lot of support to help him identify when his emotions are peaking, and to develop tools and outlets that help him manage his behaviors. Christopher is learning how to express his frustration in appropriate ways. Right now, what's working best for him is to take some time away from the situation. He needs patient parents who can provide him the time and space he needs to process his feelings, and gain an understanding of what is happening. Once he has been provided these things, Christopher has no trouble coming back safely and with a great attitude. He is really a good kid.

Christopher needs an adoptive family that can help him feel supported for the great child that he is. He needs to have age-appropriate expectations and examples of healthy family boundaries and coping skills. Christopher will thrive in an environment that provides him love, affection, consistency, stability and immersion in family activities. Christopher's adoptive family will need to be outgoing so that he will open up easier and show his great sense of humor more. He needs an adoptive family who is active and energetic as well as patient and consistent. Christopher's adoptive family will need to help build his self-esteem and assure him that he truly belongs to their family.

It will be beneficial for Christopher to have some type of ongoing contact with birth family connections that is deemed safe and appropriate. Christopher will be receiving therapeutic services during his transition into an adoptive home. He will undoubtedly be processing feelings of grief and loss, and it would be beneficial if his adoptive family would participate in the healing process with him. Some contact with his current providers will also likely be of great benefit to him, and would be helpful in smoothing the transition to adoption. Christopher is legally free to be adopted.

Christopher needs adoptive parents who are encouraging, patient, affectionate, and stable. Christopher will need a strong advocate who can ensure his academic needs are being met. Christopher is a wonderful child who deserves a family to love him forever.

To find out more about Christopher, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588. Christopher is available for adoption through the State of Oregon.

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