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/.

Andrew

Age: 6

Andrew is a fun-loving, energetic boy with a warm smile and playful nature. He deserves parents who will strengthen the bonds of attachment and provide the tools needed for him to blossom into a self-assured young man.

"Hi, I'm Andy. I love Boise State football. I like baseball and basketball, too. I want to play sports in school when I get older. I like to swim and go roller blading. My favorite food is French fries. I like to watch 'Blue's Clues.'"

Six-year-old Andy is currently in kindergarten. He says he likes to play with dinosaurs and Play-Doh while at school. Andy would love to be in a family with a mom, a dad, and two brothers. He would also like to be able to maintain contact with his siblings. He likes to play outside and would respond well to parents who are fully engaged in sharing those activities with him.

Andy's case worker describes him as "sweet, kind, caring, and funny." She states that he would do best in a family with experienced parents who are willing to stick with the services he currently receives. Andy would benefit from a stay-at-home parent who can devote a lot of time and attention to him. He could be the only child or the youngest with older siblings.

Andy needs parents who are enthusiastic about working on his particular challenges and can model enduring patience, love, and empathy. Parents who can enforce boundaries, yet respond with compassion to the struggles Andy goes through will be of great benefit to him. The ability to build on areas of strength and feelings of competence will be a great asset, as well. Parents who can demonstrate that a willingness to participate in activities is more important than winning or losing, may help to quell Andy's anxiety over trying new things.

Andy's adoption team will be looking for parents who can address his developmental needs through community resources and services. Parents who understand issues that stem from abuse, neglect, and loss will help maximize Andy's development.

Watching this young man learn self-control and make good choices will reward an adoptive family beyond measure. As they cultivate his growth and help bring the happiness to him he deserves, every family member can be a part of his successes in life.

To find out more about Andrew, 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: 30240.

Portraits by Moffett

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