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/.

Beto

Age: 12

If you can say the name Austreberto and roll those "r"s properly, you may have the bilingual capabilities and cultural traditions this optimistic boy hopes for within an adoptive family. He wants a family that includes a mom, a dad and possibly a few brothers who speak Spanish as well as English. Beto, as his friends call him, loves Mexican food, watching soccer and attending celebrations that are a part of his Mexican heritage.

"My name is Beto. I like to ride my bike, run, and play games. I have played tag football, but I don't think I'd like regular football. I might get hurt.

I want to be able to visit my sister. She makes me laugh. She tickles me and wrestles with me.

My favorite thing about WAHOOZ! is everthing! We played miniature golf and played lots of games inside. I won 300 tickets to get a prize!"

According to Beto's caseworker, this likeable boy with the mile-wide grin can seem shy at first, but then has the ability to open up to others. Once you get Beto talking, he can tell you all about his favorite movies or the pets he hopes to have in his family, or his latest bike adventure. He also likes to build things. He was recently in an Art camp for the summer and seems to enjoy creative activities. Beto is currently playing volleyball at his school. But don't assume he's a natural athlete. Beto would rather be a spectator at sports events-especially if he can share that time with a father or brothers. He also likes playing Xbox games.

Beto's caseworker says he responds well to goals tied to rewards. For instance, he likes to earn an allowance. He really loves to shop for himself and look good. That is a strength that parents can build upon in areas like putting his clothes away or finishing homework. Beto is a happy, agreeable boy who has not always had these expectations in his family life. Praise and other rewards for doing the right thing are very effective for Beto. He likes to please those he looks up to. Nurturing two-way respect is the best way to build Beto's trust and cooperation.

Beto enjoys playing outside with neighborhood friends. Because he is easily influenced by his peers--not unlike most pre-teens--his adoptive folks should be willing to provide him with many opportunities with friends who bring out the best in him.

The Mexican customs Beto wants his family to share include close family ties such as the one he maintains with his older sister. Once Beto is adopted, he will receive full American citizenship, which he does not possess right now. Until then, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare will be providing state funded foster care payments and coverage for medical expenses.

Beto needs parents who will advocate for him at school and get involved in his Individual Educational Plan. Learning in some areas can be difficult, but he is doing reasonably well at school. Getting a good education might be a priority for Beto...he wants to be able to earn enough money some day to buy an expensive sports car!

More than anything, Beto needs parents who will show they are sticking with him...not going anywhere. He's been in several foster families and had to adjust to many different rules and parenting styles. What is most difficult is feeling temporary and not always knowing why a move within foster care was necessary. For a family that will rebuild trust in openness and convince Beto of lifetime commitment, he will generously share his special optimism, his generous spirit and a grin that melts hearts.

Matt Green from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Beto (Austreberto), adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine or call 1-800-926-2588. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30267.

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