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/.

Brendon

Ages: 11

Brendon is a happy child with lots of energy and special qualities. He is physically affectionate and unusually sweet and gentle for an active boy. He especially likes playing outdoors. He seeks adult attention and being listened to, because he has so much to say. Brendon is fascinated with the mechanics of how things work and is very observant. He loves to build things, like LEGO, and also likes to take things apart.

A handsome boy with small stature and brown eyes that sparkle when he flashes his heartwarming smile, Brendon has had the good fortune of a stable foster home since late 2006. Due to his special needs, Brendon's biological mother was unable to parent him, although she did make sure he had appropriate medical care to address symptoms of autism related to Asperger’s syndrome, attention difficulties and high energy. Although Brendon is not yet legally free, this is not a legal risk placement. His birth parents are ready to relinquish her parental rights when a loving family is found. The court is in agreement with this decision.

Brendon loves school despite the challenges he has with focusing, transitioning between activities and peer interactions. With repetition, patient instruction and extra support, he should be capable of mastering many grade-level concepts. Currently, he is benefiting from having an individual education plan and counseling to assist him with peer relationships.

Brendon clearly demonstrates how much he enjoys being part of a family during monthly weekend visits to his grandmother. It is strongly encouraged that his adoptive folk(s) help him maintain this connection and also be open to helping him establish contact with his 16-year old brother.

The family chosen to adopt Brendon will need to have an abundance of patience and a desire to learn about working with mild autism. Parents who can help Brendon maintain a comfortable routine, are structured in their activities and can be strong advocates for his special needs are encouraged to call. Brendon needs considerable time and preparation in order to ready his brain to respond or transition and to prepare for a closure of his current focus. Having adoptive parent(s) who have a good understanding of the needs of autistic children would be wonderful for Brendon. He is a very gentle, loveable boy who deserves to have adults in his corner making a difference in his life.

For more information on austistic spectrum disorders, including Aspergers, go to http://www.autismspeaks.org.

Portraits by Pomerelle Portrait Design Studios

Brendon is available for adoption through the State of Oregon. For contact information, please contact the Idaho CareLine at 1-800-926-2588.

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