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/.

Ebony

Age: 11

"I'm Ebony. I like to listen to my CD player, play with my Bratz dolls, dance and sing. I have friends at school because I'm nice if they're nice to me. I'll treat you the same way you treat me. I want to be a doctor, a model or a singer when I grow up. I would like to be the youngest child in a family. I would also like to be with someone who will spend lots of time with me."

Ebony is a smart, articulate girl. Because she's already experienced sharp disappointments in her young life, she may appear to have a tough exterior. With patience and caring, that soon gives way to a sensitive child-one who responds to attention, instruction and sincere praise. When Ebony shares her opinions, she needs parents who listen and teach through friendly, inquisitive dialogue and practical reasoning rather than through an authoritarian approach. At the heart of her bravado is a child who wants to be accepted and liked.

Described as "energetic, artistic and someone who likes to shop, camp and swim," Ebony will do well with a family that spends lots of time with her. Ebony will enjoy playing games, watching movies or having a good laugh with her new family.

Ebony is mature beyond her years, and the adoptive parents must be realistic about the challenges this may present. A calm parenting style will also help with post-traumatic stress and adjustment issues Ebony has to be the youngest child in the family or the only child and has specifically told her social worker she would like being the only child of a single parent. Ebony needs a strong, nurturing female role model who can assist her as she develops further into a young woman. Her current foster mother could help with the transition from her home by sharing the rules and dependable routines that Ebony's come to rely upon.

This hardy child needs a safe, nurturing family--one that will also ensure Ebony stays connected to her three younger siblings that are being adopted by another family. It will take time to convince her that adoption means no more moves. Her parents can do it by sticking by her and working through occasional challenges. Ebony's affection and each funny moment will be cherished long after she's become an independent young woman.

To find out more about Ebony, 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: 30268.

Portraits by Moffett

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