c6838

Child's name: James
Birthdate: 7/96
Number: C6838
State: Idaho
Listed: October 2007, Updated 2/08

Portrait by Pomerelle Portrait Design Studios

Idaho Wednesday's Child/SNAPS profile for James

If you have completed an adoption homestudy and would like to have your information forwarded to this child's worker, contact us.

Meet JAMES (7/96), who is legally free and looking forward to being adopted. He would like to tell you a bit about himself.

"Hi, I'm James and I'm 11 years old. I like to ride my mountain bike. I'd like to have a BMX bike someday. Maybe I'll be a BMX biker or someone who plays in the X games. I like dogs. Actually I'm in heaven when I'm with our dog. I like to play guitar. I'm taking lessons every Thursday. I compete in Special Olympics in snowshoeing and bowling. I'm going to compete this summer in track.

I'd like a Dad like Mike. He's my aide. He teaches me how to play games. We do exercises machines together and play basketball. Mike takes me fishing and other places.

One thing you should know about me is that I am an eating machine! I'm always hungry. I'd like a mom or a dad who can cook good food. I like pizza, spaghetti and meatballs, potatoes and gravy, turkey. Oh and deer jerky, too."

James' adoption caseworker says he is a happy, enthusiastic boy. His focus on food brings a lot of humor into the day. Good-natured prompts and a balance of exercise help keep James in tip-top shape and give him pride in his athletic achievements.

Although James may not thoroughly understand what adoption or guardianship might mean in his life, he does need a single father or mother or couple's lifetime commitment. Patience in teaching and reiterating will help him with cognitive delays and mastering the daily living tasks he'll need for a greater degree of independence.

James loves the one-on-one attention he receives from his aide, Mike. That's because Mike listens to him and encourages him in learning new skills. Because James is entering adolescence, Mike helps him with social skills, manners and understanding how he is changing into a young man. This is what he needs from a permanent parent. Bottom line, this active young man thrives on attention that's wrapped up in physical activities like basketball, hiking and biking.

When James has a reliable home structure and routine, things go so well for him. Once he settles into a routine and knows it has firm boundaries, he relies upon it: a snack, chores, playtime, dinner and getting ready for bed. He depends upon prompts and consistency. No prompts are necessary at snack time. James has that one mastered!

Sharing attention with younger kids is not easy for James. It would be best if he were an only child or with siblings who are his age or older. Above all, he needs the positive regard of a supportive family. James' enthusiasm for life will teach the adults in his life to find joy in simple things like sharing conversation and a good snack!

Subsidy and Purchase of Service may be available.

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