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/.

Joseph

Age: 8

"My name is Joseph. I like LEGO and building things. I want a family of my own, but I don't think anyone will want me. I'm like a kid on the 'Island of Misfit Toys.'"

Joseph is a little boy with a big heart. He wants to have friends and to be loved by adults. Imagine that desire existing in a boy who is still trying to fit the puzzle together of how to make and keep friends. He wants to make good choices but struggles with impulsive behaviors related to ADHD. His foster mom says, "He is the most loving kid I have ever had in my home, and I've been fostering a long time. He is also one of the most honest. When I ask him if he did something, he will say 'I can't lie to you. It was me.' It's all a matter of loving this little guy and letting him know it at the end of the day--even when it's been a trying day."

According to his caseworker, Joseph needs line of sight supervision, consistency, structure, someone willing to utilize services and support, and most of all, a parent with lots of one-on-one time. With someone to build his self-esteem and reinforce good behavior, Joseph could amaze with his progress! He needs and deserves a special person who believes the best way to help a child let go of negative attention-seeking or coping behaviors is to consistently notice and praise desirable choices. His adoption team will be looking for folks with above-average parenting experience, professional skills or exposure to children within the foster care system.

Contact with an older brother is an important part of Joseph's adoption plan. Although older brother Kelly's needs are very different, they will need parents in two households to coordinate visits, calls and ongoing contact.

Joseph has recently been placed on an IEP to help him with behavior management in school. As his educational team plans to build through his strengths, it will be crucial to his school plan to have a family that's an active member of this team. He does have a normal IQ and is known as "a smart little boy." What amazing things he could accomplish with the support of an energetic, sympathetic family!

Portraits by Pomerelle Portrait Design Studios

To find out more about Joseph, 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: 30342.

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