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/.

AJ

Ages: 11

"I'm AJ. I like to play video games. My favorite Playstation 2 games are Rachet and Clank. I like Star Wars and Hot Wheels cars. I like to go outside when I need to cool off. I also like rollerblading and skateboarding and swimming. I like to take things apart to see how they work, and then put them back together.

I would like a family that is nice and patient. I want a family who will take me places and play games with me. Sometimes I have accidents, but I'm getting better. Would you like to watch me jump from the swing?"

Alexander James, known as "AJ", is a rugged boy with boundless energy. He loves to talk to adults and quickly reveals whatever is on his mind. AJ's natural pattern of speaking in measured tones is quite unique. He loves to share his imagination and wonder of the world. He can also become quickly frustrated when things aren't going his way. When given choices of what he can personally do to change the situation, he usually comes around to a solution. AJ has tremendous resiliency. He loves cracking jokes and teasing others, though he doesn't appreciate being teased by other children. He loves being the center of attention, and is happiest when his conversations reflect his own interests.

Described by caregivers as "talkative, loving towards adults and absolutely imaginative," AJ is known for his concrete way of dealing with the situation at hand. He will be the first to quote the rules to you or to someone who is crossing the line. He loves to be in charge and is usually at his best when demonstrating the best technique. AJ's fertile imagination is a companion trait entwined in the way he views his world.

AJ has made recent improvements within a stable loving foster home. He is at his best in a structured environment where he knows the routine, the rules and what is expected of him. He is able to switch gears when he knows a change is coming and knows how to make that change.

A wise parent could engage AJ's natural talent for directing once he is familiar with the routine and household rules. His desire to be a leader is a trait that could be turned into a strength.

AJ needs a single parent or a couple that can focus on his challenges as well as his strengths. Above all, he needs a coach to help him prevail in a world that requires social transactions. His adoption team will be looking for a strong, mature and patient parent who will work with professionals within the community. A team effort will be critical to AJ's continued progress. Folks who have experience parenting pre-teens would be a benefit to AJ. AJ needs a family who can help him learn appropriate social and self-care skills as he navigates his way through adolescence and beyond.

If you have the strength of character and will to match AJ's need to learn and adapt, you could make such a difference in his life! Do you understand insecure attachment and can you delay your own need when it comes to appreciation or love? AJ's ability to return love will take time and effort. It is a reward that will come unexpectedly, like a hidden treasure, to the dedicated adoptive family that devotes their efforts to this lovable boy.

To find out more about AJ, call the Idaho CareLine number, 1-800-926-2588. In Idaho you can dial 2-1-1. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30266.

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