Dylan, 8, is a wonderful little boy with special needs who is affectionate and joyful. Dylan enjoys spending time entertaining himself with toys. He loves movies, being read to and hanging out with caring adults. He is very verbal and will talk about the most amazing and entertaining real and imaginary situations. His imagination is boundless.

Dylan often prefers independent rather than group activities, although he will play for a long time with single peers who cooperate and do not challenge him. He has no hesitation standing up for his rights and is willing to speak up for what he wants or needs.

Dylan is actively working on having more patience. He is a special education pupil, who has difficulty focusing his attention and requires prompts and redirection. His persistent questioning can be a challenge for caregivers. Dylan has mild mental retardation and is enrolled in speech and occupational therapy to help with developmental delays.

The best family for Dylan would provide the love, support and encouragement he needs, while maintaining the clarity and structure of a healthy family. Dylan would do best in a one- or two-parent family that is aware of the fact that he is easily stimulated and functions better in an atmosphere of calm caring.

The more consistent and calm his environment, the happier, more functional and the greater pleasure he becomes. An adoption subsidy is available for the most appropriate family.

Dylan is one of the 174 children now in Maine Department of Health & Human Service’s care who is seeking an adoptive family.

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. For more information about Dylan or other children available for adoption, contact A Family for ME toll free at (877) 505-0545 or visit www.AFamilyForMe.org and see the Heart Gallery of photographs of some of the many children awaiting a “forever family.”