Sunday's child

MEET A.J., AGE 11

"I'm AJ. I like to play video games. My favorite PlayStation 2 games are "Rachet and Clank."I like Star Wars and Hot Wheels cars. I like to go outside when I need to cool off. I also like Rollerblading and skateboarding and swimming. I like to take things apart to see how they work, and then put them back together.

"I would like a family that is nice and patient. I want a family who will take me places and play games with me."

Alexander James, known as "A.J.," is a rugged boy with boundless energy. He loves to talk to adults and quickly reveals whatever is on his mind. AJ's natural pattern of speaking in measured tones is quite unique. He loves to share his imagination and wonder of the world. He also can become quickly frustrated when things aren't going his way. When given choices of what he can do to change the situation, he usually comes to a solution.

A.J. has tremendous resiliency. He loves cracking jokes and teasing others, though he doesn't appreciate being teased by other children. He loves being the center of attention and is happiest when his conversations reflect his own interests.

A.J. has made recent improvements within a stable loving foster home. He is at his best in a structured environment where he knows the routine, the rules and what is expected of him. He is able to switch gears when he knows a change is coming.

A wise parent could engage A.J.'s natural talent for directing once he is familiar with the routine and household rules.

A.J. needs a single parent or a couple who can focus on his challenges as well as his strengths. Above all, he needs a coach to help him prevail in a world that requires social transactions. His adoption team will be looking for a strong, mature and patient parent who will work with professionals within the community.

Folks who have experience parenting pre-teens would be a benefit.

To find out more about A.J., call the Idaho CareLine number, (800) 926-2588. In Idaho you can dial 2-1-1. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30266.