James, born in 1996, is a smart, funny child who enjoys watching TV, playing sports and being outside. He is fun and easy to talk with and enjoys the attention of adults.

James attends public school and says he likes school and learning. He says his favorite subject is gym. James is also quick to say his least favorite thing about school is spelling, that he is not really good at it and it is hard. The professionals who work with James say he is a bit of a perfectionist and is hard on himself about his abilities at school. Reminding James that “everyone messes up” works well, and he is attempting to trust in that.

James enjoys playing a number of sports and lists basketball, soccer and baseball as his favorites. Like many his age, he also likes to play video games and listen to music on his iPod. This winter, James has been spending time ice-skating on the pond near his house. He helps clear off the snow so he and other kids in the area can skate. He also says he likes to build snow forts in winter.

The optimum family for James will be experienced and nurturing. A home that is structured and predictable would fit well with James’ needs. It would be best for James to be the youngest in the home, but the professionals who work with him hope for a family where James can be an only child. A family with some flexibility in its schedules would be great, as James sometimes needs assistance during the week.

James has an older brother who will be important for him to maintain contact with.

James is one of 156 children in Maine Department of Health & Human Services care who are 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 information about James 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.”