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/.

Casey

Ages: 12

"My name is Casey. I would like dogs and horses for pets. I like fishing, fishing and FISHING -- oh -- and playing catch [baseball], skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, and I really like cars. When I grow up I want to be a video game tester!"

I would like a mom and dad that are nice and like to play with kids. I want my new parents to ride horses with me. I like playing my guitar and want to learn more songs. I need to be an only child, and I want a mom and dad who like to hug and spend time with me. I want a family of my own so I don't have to move anymore."

Casey has loads of energy and needs a family who can help him expend his energy while setting firm rules an boundaries in all settings. He can focus on tasks that require fine motor skills. His caseworker describes him as an artistic child who loves one-on-one attention and lots of hugs. He is content when he is busy, especially with outdoor interests.

As Casey continues to develop into a young man, he needs strong individuals in his life that understand the effects of abuse and neglect. He needs the one-on-one focus of parents who can delay their own need for love and gratitude from this unique young man. Casey's adoptive family will need to identify and reward small changes as Casey steps toward major progress. Casey needs lots of positive reinforcement. He often seeks negative attention and needs a family to ignore his negative behaviors and teach him how to seek positive attention.

Casey's adoption team will be looking for a parent(s) who are able to access the professional resources needed for his continued growth. He would benefit from educational and behavioral supports in the classroom, home, and community settings. Casey's future adoptive parents will need to come equipped with lots of parenting savvy.

Casey needs a stable couple or single parent who could assist in teaching him more appropriate social and behavioral skills. A family where Casey can be the only child or with older children who can provide positive role models would be the best match for this dynamic young man.

Portrait by Pomerelle Portrait Studios

To find out more about Casey, 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: 30213.

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