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/.

Michael, Franklin & Elijah

Ages: 5-9

Recently, at a day at the zoo, Franklin and Michael forged ahead, while Elijah wandered here and there, wherever his attention took him. When Elijah got far behind he called out, "Wait for me, brothers!" This is a glimpse into the dynamics of this threesome. Despite individual abilities, they are closely bonded and will look out for one another. Franklin will need his own "middle child" attention from parents who also love Elijah's intensity and Michael's intelligence.

Michael

"Hi, I'm Michael. I'm going to have a birthday in a few days (June) and I'll be nine. I like to play video games, build with LEGO and color. I like animals, and I really want a dog of my own...and I'm very good with animals. I like to watch healthy shows on TV like history shows and Animal Planet and Discovery. I like to be active and play lots of things like football and soccer. I like mostly everything about school."

Comical and intelligent, Michael is "a cheerful, amusing boy," according to his present foster mom. He doesn't presently seem to have any significant behavioral challenges. He does have a lot of energy, which will require a family that shares his love of nearly constant activity.

Michael needs parent(s) that will channel his intelligence, attention and sometimes his frustrations into productive and engaging physical and intellectual activities-especially those that are filled with positive reinforcement.

The foster family with whom Michael has lived for two years could be a wonderful resource during and after a transition into his adoptive home. Continued contact with them would help him know that many people love him and he can love them in return, without fear of loss.

Michael loves camping, fishing, hiking and many other activities that allow him to interact with nature. If your family DOES NOT meet the definition of "couch potato," you may have what it takes to enjoy this smart, witty nature lover and his brothers.

Franklin

Described as "always very polite and happy," Franklin has a generally easy-going and compliant temperament, which sometimes contrasts with his more energetic, impulsive younger brother. He enjoys a variety of activities like riding his scooter and playing with puzzles.

Although not currently living with his older brother, Michael, Franklin looks forward to the time when they can live together in a permanent family. They have experienced a couple of moves over two years in foster care and are ready for stability. Franklin is a very adaptive child. He will be entering first grade in the fall and is an excellent student.

Watch next week's Wednesday's Child for information about Elijah and the needs of these siblings.

To find out more about Michael, Franklin & Elijah, 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: 30263.

Portraits by Moffett Photography

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