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/.

Ginger

Age: 7-11

"My name is Virginia, but people call me Ginger. I want to be a Veterinarian some day because I like to take care of animals. I like singing and playing the drums.

My sister and brother and I want to be together in a family because we love each other. It wouldn't be the same without them."

Virginia is a tall girl with warm brown eyes and a shy smile. She amazes her clinician with her ability to memorize objects, especially when she's relaxed and playing a game. When she becomes anxious or feels put on the spot, that ability seems to disappear. Ginger's development and life skills must be a two-parent priority between the present and her adult future. With encouragement, patience and consistency, her parents can maximize her ability to someday live independently, even though she may need caregiver assistance and protection as an adult.

Having people who believe in her and encourage her to develop her abilities within an ordered and reliable routine would make such a difference in her life! Her brother and sister also take their cues from caregivers. When Ginger is valued and treated with respect by parents, her siblings think well of her and are kind to their big sister. Working with a child with special needs takes above-average parents who draw family members together in respect, service and love.

Daniel

"My name is Daniel. My favorite thing at school is recess! Well, maybe I like Math, too. When I get home from school, I like to watch TV.

My sister, Lilly, plays with me when no one else will. Ginger plays with me, too, and makes me laugh. We like to tell jokes.

I'm in the CTR class at church. The letters stand for "Choose the Right." My favorite song in Primary and singing time is about Jesus."

Nine-year-old Daniel's exuberant personality and sense of humor make him a fun boy to spar with conversationally. He loves to be teased and gives back as good as he gets. He loves telling jokes and making others laugh. Daniel also has a tender, sensitive side with his sisters.

Lilly

"Hi, I'm Lilly. I want to be a nurse someday that takes care of children [a pediatric nurse] 'cause I like to help. I liked having my portrait done. Maybe I could be a model.

I like my brother because he cheers me up when I'm sad. My sister is nice, too. We like to go to church together. My favorite thing at church is Sacrament meeting."

Described by her adoption caseworker as a sociable girl who does well in school and loves being center stage, Lilly also enjoys sharing attention with others. She is happy just hanging out with her siblings. Like most siblings, they disagree at times, but they are also very relaxed around each other and play well together. The bond between them is noticeable. Their adoption social worker says that a two-parent Idaho family that realizes the importance of keeping the kids connected to their teenaged brother would be just what they are hoping for.

These are active, fun-loving children who would do well in a two-parent family; one that can give each child one-on-one time as well as nurture the bond that exists between them. The children love pets and would do well around them. They like going to new places. They could be the only children in the family or could also do well with younger or older siblings. The most important family traits are commitment, mutual respect amongst family members and hearts ready to serve, protect and enjoy these adventurous children.

Portrait by Matt Green from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Ginger, Daniel and Lilly, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine or call 1-800-926-2588. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30467.

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