Sunday’s Child is a weekly column featuring a child currently in foster care awaiting adoption.
Isaiah is an energetic 9-year-old boy of African-American and Caucasian descent. Isaiah describes himself as curious, fun-loving, and funny. Isaiah is a very bright child who loves to draw, paint, and build.
While indoors, Isaiah enjoys playing with trucks, Kinetics, Legos, and other games. When given the opportunity to play outdoors, Isaiah enjoys sports such as basketball and baseball. Isaiah’s favorite color is red and he loves animals.
In school, Isaiah is supported by an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) as he has some learning challenges. Isaiah struggles with staying focused and learning how to be part of a group. He can become easily distracted and unable to concentrate for extended periods of time. Isaiah can struggle with appropriate peer interactions as well but he has shown significant improvement in settings that provide a high level of structure, clear expectations, and firm redirection. Isaiah has a significant trauma history and receives weekly therapy. Individual trauma-focused therapy has been beneficial in helping Isaiah develop coping skills and containment. Isaiah’s creativity and willingness to engage has allowed him to process trauma through play and narrative therapy.
Legally freed for adoption, Isaiah can do well in any type of family that will allow for a slow transition. In addition, given the gaps that Isaiah has experienced in school due to multiple placements, it is recommended that a supportive academic environment be significantly assessed to best address his academic, social, and emotional needs. A strong network of outpatient supports, including a mentor and an in-home therapist, will also increase the likelihood of a successful transition. He has a close relationship with his two younger sisters he sees monthly and this would need to continue.
Ironstone adoption party
Have you ever considered adopting a child from foster care with an intellectual, physical, or developmental disability?
Join the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at Ironstone Farm on August 6th from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in North Andover to find out more about the process and children in foster care of all ages with special needs.
Learn about the different services offered to families post-adoption, meet waiting children, and their social workers, and participate in activities.
Pre-registration is required. Please call Victoria at MARE to learn more about this annual event at 617-542- 3678 ext. 135 or e-mail victoriat@mareinc.org. You can also visit www.mareinc.org to register.
