Ralph is a friendly, easy-going youngster with a wonderful ability to learn and absorb information quickly. He likes to play soccer, Nintendo and computer games, ride his bike and swim at the local YMCA pool.

Ralph also enjoys playing basketball, softball and soccer and spending time with his siblings.

Ralph and his three siblings came into the care of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services in May 2002. Ralph and siblings Aaron, 11, and Lydia, 9, have been in the same placement together since coming into care. The children would like to be adopted together and to maintain contact with their older sister Brittany, 13.

Ralph has a great curiosity for new adventures and enjoys learning. He was able to go on an overnight campout for the first time this past summer, and he had an excellent time.

Ralph has been introduced to many different activities, such as plays, sports and the circus, all of which he has thoroughly enjoyed.

He is an affectionate child who thrives on praise and positive reinforcement. Ralph is working at grade level in school and takes pride in his academic success.

Ralph, Aaron and Lydia would be most successful in a two-parent family. They will require an abundance of love from parents who are able to set clear and consistent limits.

The children also would benefit from parents who take an active role in their academic lives. All three children would do well with older siblings.

Adoption subsidy may be available to the most appropriate family.

Ralph, Aaron and Lydia are three of the 218 Maine children currently in Maine DHHS care who are seeking an adoptive family.

For more information about the siblings or other children available for adoption, please contact A Family for ME at (877) 505-0545 or visit www.afamilyforme.org.

Based in Gardiner, A Family for ME is a nonprofit program that works in collaboration with Maine DHHS to find foster and adoptive families for Maine children in care.