Wednesday's Child: Emily and Jacob

Emily and Jacob are Caucasian siblings who are legally free for adoption seeking an adoptive home together. They play well together, and Emily looks out for her younger brother. They currently live together in the same foster home where they are both doing well.

Emily, 9, is a bright fourth grader who is generally happy and upbeat. She loves to talk and tell stories, and responds very well to one-on-one attention. Her social worker describes her as a sweet, caring girl with a warm, pure heart. Emily loves to dance, read and do arts and crafts. She used to want to be a teacher and now says she wants to be an artist. Emily does very well in school, both academically and behaviorally. She has no specific special needs. Emily gets along well with her peers and works with a therapist to develop socially appropriate behaviors.

Jacob is a friendly, easy-going 8-year-old boy who is always happy. He is caring individual who will give you a cookie before he even takes one for himself. Jacob is also affectionate and loves to give out hugs. He has an Individualized Education Plan and attends the first grade classroom for children with autism. A main focus for Jacob's education is improving his speech. It is also important for Jacob to learn personal space and appropriate social behaviors. Jacob has a stable medical condition that requires routine follow-up. His special needs don't slow Jacob down, and he enjoys bike rides and swimming with his sister, as well going camping with his foster family. Jacob also enjoys listening to music and pretend doctor play.

Emily and Jacob's social worker is open to a family of any constellation. While they would benefit from the positive role modeling of older siblings, they would do well with younger siblings as well.

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