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Wednesday's Child: Lariah And Shyheim

BOSTON (CBS) - Lariah and Shyheim, 8 and 9-years-old respectively, are loving siblings of African-American descent.

They presently live in separate foster homes and hope to be reunited in a "forever family." Shyheim is a protective big brother who looks out for his little sister.

Lariah is in the third grade and has an Individualized Educational Plan for all subjects. She loves to play outdoors and with her dolls. Someday, she would like to take dance lessons. Lariah has also mentioned trying out cheerleading, and she has a fun, friendly personality perfectly suited for cheerleading. Lariah can be very helpful and enjoys doing chores around her foster home.

Shyheim is in the fourth grade and is working at grade level. Although he does not have a specialized curriculum, Shyheim tends to question his ability to perform well in school. He excels at martial arts and also likes to play with action figures and board games. Shyheim is interested in sports and would like to play football or basketball in the near future.

Legally free for adoption, Lariah and Shyheim need a two-parent home with much older children or no other children.

These siblings have a younger brother whom they hope to remain in contact.

They will need structure, consistency, physical affection and reassurance from a family that they won't have to move again. On occasion, both children have had struggles with authority and peer relationships in school and at home.

Lariah can especially be strong-willed and oppositional. Both children have witnessed violence and have experienced neglect in their lives, and they will need caregivers with a parenting style that includes positive reinforcement and praise.

Lariah will continue to need monthly medical care for an undetermined length of time at Shriner's Burn Center in Boston. Recently, Lariah suffered severe burns on her legs and feet, and she has had to undergo numerous surgeries and skin grafts. She also has allergies and asthma and cannot be in a home with animal dander. Despite their challenges, these children are able to grow and positive strides towards fulfilling their full potential. The care and stability from a loving, permanent family will go a long way, and in time, the children could blossom and thrive.

To learn more about Lariah and Shyheim, and about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at 617-54-ADOPT (617-542-3678) or visit MAREinc.org.  The sooner you call, the sooner a waiting child will have "a permanent place to call HOME."

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