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/.

Beto

Age: 13

Do you love Mexican food, warm family gatherings, Mexican music, and celebrations that are so much a part of Western society? You may be the family Austreberto, (also known as Beto) hopes will claim him as their son. After bonding with a foster family that is bilingual, Beto has discovered how comfortable he can feel within a home where all cultures are embraced.

"My name is Beto. I like playing and watching soccer. I like camping and fishing. I might also like hunting, but I've never done that. I like going to rodeos. I used to go to them in Washington with my cousin when I was eight. I like to swim and I love going to Roaring Springs [water park]. I also like soccer and I follow teams from Mexico.

When I think of what I might like to do when I'm older, I would like to travel to Mexico and look up some of my relatives. Someday I'd like to study Mixed Martial Arts. I would enjoy having my own dog. I've watched shows where dog are rescued from owners who have abused them, like Pit Bulls. Or I might like owning a Chihuahua.

I want to continue being able to visit my sister [in southern Idaho]. She makes me laugh when she teases me and wrestles with me.

According to Beto's caseworker, this sometimes shy teen with an easy grin has the ability to open up to others, once he feels comfortable with them. He can tell you all about his favorite movies or the pets he hopes to have in his family, or his favorite soccer team. Beto would rather be a spectator at sports events, especially if he can share that time with a father or brothers. He also likes playing Xbox games.

Beto's caseworker says he responds well to goals tied to rewards. For instance, he likes to earn an allowance. He really loves to shop for himself and look good. That is something parents can use as an incentive in areas like keeping his room in order or finishing homework. Beto is a happy, agreeable boy who has not always had these expectations in his family life. Praise and other rewards for doing the right thing are very effective for Beto. He likes to please those he looks up to. Nurturing two-way respect is the best way to build this young man's trust and cooperation.

Beto enjoys being part of a group and having friends. With his easy-going nature, he is easily influenced by peers--not unlike most teens. His adoptive folks should be willing to provide many social opportunities with friends who bring out the best in him.

Beto needs parents who will advocate for him at school and get involved in his Individual Educational Plan. Learning in some areas can be difficult; however, Beto is able to catch up with the right tutoring. If you are able to make learning fun, reward improvement and understand when a break from studies is needed, you might elevate Beto's opinion of school. Getting a good education could become a priority, especially when tied to earning enough to buy the car of his dreams and all the attached expenses!

More than anything, Beto needs parents who will show they are sticking with him, not going anywhere. He's managed to adjust to many different rules and parenting styles within a few foster homes. What is most difficult is feeling temporary and not always knowing why a move was necessary. For a family that will rebuild trust in openness and convince Beto of lifetime commitment, he will generously share his special optimism, his generous spirit and a shy grin that melts hearts.

Portrait by Barb from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Beto (Austreberto), adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30479.

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