Other Special Needs Girls, 6-9

Phoebe is a beautiful girl with cerebral palsy. She is aware and responsive to the world around her—she turns toward familiar sounds, smiles when she hears her name, and delights in the voices of people nearby. Phoebe uses a wheelchair and is lovingly assisted by a caretaker for feeding and daily needs. She has a wonderfully smiley spirit and especially loves snuggles and close, affectionate connection. With the right family, Phoebe would thrive surrounded by patience, tenderness, and love.

These 6-year-old twin sisters from western Africa are ready to bring double the joy to their forever family! While they might greet you with a touch of initial shyness, don’t let that fool you. Beneath their gentle exteriors lie curious minds and warm hearts that blossom quickly. Their caregivers consistently remark on their intelligence and enthusiastic approach to learning. Amelia, the more contemplative of the pair, loves playing with her dolls, watching Disney films, and creating colorful masterpieces with her drawing. Scarlett, with her inquisitive nature, is full of thoughtful questions and energy. She has a passion for dance and loves playing with Barbies. Imagine the joy of witnessing these two smart young girls explore the world around them. If you’re looking to open your heart and home to not one, but two little girls ready to learn, grow, and share their unique personalities, perhaps Amelia and Scarlett are the perfect fit for your family.

Amelia and Scarlett have been diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease, which is currently managed with daily medication.

Miriam came into care at six months of age. She was very small and had poor sucking reflex. At the age of 16 months, her skills were at about the 11-month mark. She is listed as having global developmental delay in the moderate to severe range. In April of 2022, Miriam walked without any assistance from anyone for the first time. Everyone was thrilled! Despite her delays, Miriam shows remarkable improvements daily. She is becoming active and physically strong. She is emotionally attached to the staff and relates well to all the house parents and caregivers. Miriam plays and interacts with some of the children. She is sweet and lovely. Her smile makes her even more adorable. The whole team is very fond of her. Miriam needs a family that would wholeheartedly accept her condition and one who is willing to walk her through the struggles and challenges of Noonan Syndrome. The family must be willing to seek the professional help she will need as she grows. Contact the agency to learn more about Miriam!

Medical diagnosis of the child: low vision, bilateral amblyopia, astigmatism, hypermetropia, secondary exotropia, and nystagmus (irregular eye movements) with a rotational component, and behavioral disorder.

Information is from September 2024

Summary:  Yessica is a 7-year-old girl who has faced significant instability in her early life. She was abandoned by her biological parents, and then she lived with her grandfather until 2023, when he could not longer care for her needs.

Yessica has specific medical needs, particularly concerning her vision and behavioral health, both of which require consistent management. Yenci has complex visual diagnoses including low vision, bilateral amblyopia, astigmatism, hypermetropia, secondary exotropia, and nystagmus (irregular eye movements) with a rotational component. She underwent surgery for strabismus around April 2024 and currently wears corrective lenses. She has been diagnosed with  behavioral disorder. She takes daily medication for her latter diagnosis. Her weight and height are appropriate for her age. She has received dental treatment for cavities and is in good oral health.

Yessica is currently enrolled in the second grade. She has experienced difficulties with academic performance, including low grades and failing subjects, largely due to challenges with concentration and understanding tasks. She struggles particularly with Language but shows aptitude in math, art, and religion. With increased support at home, her interest in studying is improving. Yessica demonstrates clear language use with coherent content and age-appropriate vocabulary. Her thinking is flexible, allowing her to identify risks and consequences. She is also advancing in reading comprehension. She has adequate fine and gross motor function, showing good coordination and manipulation skills.

Yessica is an affectionate child who is learning to navigate her emotions with professional support. She is currently going to psychiatry and psychology therapy to address behavioral difficulties. She needs support managing frustration and developing assertive responses. She can be impulsive (accelerated behavior), has difficulty staying still, and may struggle with following institutional rules, occasionally displaying rebellious or defiant behavior. Yessica is capable of giving and receiving affection. While she can be jealous with significant figures, she is responsive to dialogue and understands situations after discussion. She has developed skills to express her emotions, needs, and desires more clearly. She can lose motivation easily but is capable of regaining it through encouragement and dialogue.

Yessica has distinct preferences that give insight into her personality and what she hopes for in a family. She enjoys playing with dolls and has a fondness for dresses and shoes. Yessica has expressed a preference for adoption by a nuclear family (mom and dad) or a single-parent maternal family. She is indifferent as to whether the family already has other children. Despite her challenges, she shows a willingness to connect and has a preference for feminine figures, though she is open to a nuclear family structure. A balance of clear, consistent rules with warm affection is crucial to help her feel secure and manage her conduct disorder.

Holly is a cheerful, lovely, friendly and cheeky 5-year-old girl who lights up her surroundings as a true superstar. She loves people and her medical staff adores her, often gifting her beautiful clothes. She treasures relationships as she can easily remember faces after just two meetings. Holly is learning to use alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) with the help of a tablet, where she can tap to select people she wants to see (picture available). During the social worker’s child visit, she even used gestures to request adding the worker’s face to her tablet even though it was her first-time meeting her. Despite her many medical needs, this child has shown the ability to learn and engage with her with a variety of engagement types. She is a funny girl who makes people smile with her bright personality. A picture is available of her making funny faces when the social worker was taking her pictures for the child study.

Holly is diagnosed with incomplete DiGeorge syndrome, bilateral vocal cord palsy, oropharyngeal dysphagia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), scoliosis, global developmental delay and exotropia. She is on tracheostomy and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding. She has remained hospitalized since birth for her medical needs even though she is medically stable now. To learn more about DiGeorge Syndrome, visit the Mayo Clinic’s syndrome page here: DiGeorge syndrome (22q11.2 deletion syndrome) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

As mentioned, despite Holly’s significant medical needs, she has made remarkable progress in her development over the past year. She can follow simple instructions, point to familiar objects, and use tools after observing her teacher’s demonstrations. Holly shows interest and joy while learning various play skills and can imitate appropriate play behaviors with prompting and encouragement. She consistently communicates her needs using gestures and she also has great eye contact. Additionally, she can sit independently, take a few steps without assistance, self-propel her wheelchair for short distances, and manage tasks like eating and dressing on her own. She enjoys watching cartoons and listening to music.

Despite having a tracheostomy, Holly does not require ventilator support. However, in the event of tracheostomy dislodgement, there is a risk of hypoxia and immediate tracheostomy reinsertion is necessary. She needs to be accompanied by a trained caregiver at all times. Holly has been assessed as medically fit for home care. The doctor has recommended that Holly requires a well-trained and attentive caregiver who can provide vigilant around-the-clock care, and the caregiver would need to be proficient in special care skills, including managing tracheostomy emergencies.

Holly has made great strides in the past half year and we strongly believe she will continue to make great progress in reaching her potential within a loving and fun family.

Due to the country’s matching process, families with an approved home study for any country are able to request consideration to be Holly’s parents. If matched, the family would then need to quickly update their home study and gather the dossier for the country.

Dawn & Donna are  twin girls who were born in Ukraine at 29 weeks gestation. They lived in an orphanage in Ukraine until they were 1.5 years old, at which time they were moved to an orphanage in Bulgaria. They were then moved to a different placement in Bulgaria at age 3, where they still reside.

 

Donna’s medical diagnosis includes: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) stage 5, post vitrectomy condition bilaterally; secondary glaucoma. Left eye ROP stage4 Nystagmus. Delayed neuro-psychic development. Condition after low birth weight. Self-aggression. Spastic quadriparesis. Iron deficiency anaemia

 

Dawn was born first. Her medical diagnosis includes: cerebral palsy – spastic quadriparesis. Spastic quadriparesis. Suspected hydrocephalus with normal pressure and hypoplasia of corpus callosum. Grade 1 hypotrophy. Convergent strabismus; hypermetropia. Condition following very low birth weight.

 

Update July 2024: After their placement into the foster home on May 14, 2024, the girls have adjusted well and made noticeable developmental progress. They show an attachment to the foster mom and follow her instructions. One of the girls can now walk independently and is well oriented in the foster home. The other girl sits with little support. The girls now eat mashed food from a fork or spoon and chew well. They have learned to speak their first meaningful words and are also observed to repeat syllables. While there’s some jealousy between the sisters when it comes to receiving attention, they are emotionally close and hug/hold hands. Videos from July 2024 show one girl as tenacious in exploring her environment and the other as joyful when playing on the floor. The girls attend therapy twice a week and their foster mom is proactive in seeking additional services for them. They like music and singing and enjoy massage from the foster mom. They are thrilled to be playing in the inflatable pool in the backyard. Their foster mom describes them as positive children who will continue to make progress with the right interventions and lots of love.

From a family who met them in 2023

I met these twins when I visited my daughter for trip one in 10/2023. One twin was active and was able to stand holding on and cruise around her crib. She was able to climb right out of her floor crib and back in herself. It was an activity for her and she did it with great ease. She wasn’t trying to escape at any point and would just flip In and out over and over again. She seemed like what you would expect for a toddler. She stopped what she was doing when someone called her name and turned in the direction of their voice. The other sweet twin was always laying down when I saw her. Sometimes in a crib, sometimes in a seat. My daughter asked for “baby” all the time and they would put this twin in her crib with her to lay together. They said she was more “severe”. She definitely seemed more infantile. They were in a really great place where they got plenty of food and were carried around a lot by the staff there. There were 8 kids on that floor in four rooms. The twins shared a room. I believe they are now in a foster situation. They def were pretty easygoing. They had a lot of musical toys which they seemed to like. The active twin kept herself busy a lot but the quiet twin seemed to love cuddling and other kids being around her. I think some of the delays they have may be related to vision impairments. I would imagine they would do well with siblings.

Elise arrived with a unique constellation of traits known as Cornelia de Lange syndrome, primarily affecting her facial features. She’s a delicate soul with a sweet disposition, and her gentle nature is simply heartwarming.

This precious little one thrives on affection — she has an incredible capacity for love and blossoms with nurturing care that includes endless cuddles, tender personal interaction, and thoughtful understanding. She merits a patient touch and activities tailored just for her, which will provide not only pleasure but also enriching experiences.

During our time together, Elise remained serene and composed, displaying a quiet passivity. My playful attempts to tickle and engage her elicited limited response initially, but as patience persevered, her awareness and interaction gradually emerged.

Elise’s life would be beautifully complimented by a loving family atmosphere, filled with unwavering support and encouragement. A home that teems with warmth and offers plentiful one-on-one interaction, a trove of stimulating activities, and specialist involvement, would cultivate her growth and happiness.

To the kind-hearted families contemplating the rewarding path of adoption: envision a life with Elise, where every day is an opportunity to nourish and celebrate a precious child’s potential, and where love knows no bounds.

Look at the sweet smile on Bella!  Bella spends the majority of the time in her bed or in the special stroller that she can be pushed in.  She is often fed in the stroller as well.  She is fed with a bottle.

Agency staff member said the following:  Given the fact that only a rehabilitator is currently working with the child and the staff at the Home only have time to cover her basic needs, it is definitely very difficult to say to what extent the little girl has developmental potential. In my opinion, Bella liked it when she received personal attention such as being spoken to gently, being teased by me or by my showing her different toys. She had been working on a smile during that time.  Most of the time, both her arms and legs were in motion, and she even managed to roll over in bed. She needs a lot of love and attention and systematic and purposeful activities with specialists.

Mila turns her head towards sound and looks at people and objects of interest. She recognizes the faces of the staff. She can roll over, but still has difficulty with head control. She enjoys musical toys that spin and will focus on those for short periods of time.

Update 8/2024

Lilian is described as happy and communicative girl who is very creative. She interacts positively with adults and other children. She is currently in the fifth grade where she is known to be a good student.

Sonny is a quiet boy though he smiles and babbles to communicate with others. He is a quadriplegic child with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

The agency can attempt to obtain additional information for interested families.

Lucia and Charles are a very bonded Afro-Latin brother and sister sibling set who live together in the same foster home. They came into care when they were 8 and 2 years old respectively. Before coming into care, one of her older brothers often fulfilled a parental role with them but was abusive in this role. When they first came into care and for a while after, Lucia took the position of maternal figure to Charles and was opposing to the foster mothers which led to changes in foster homes. Over time, however, she settled in and started allowing the foster mother to take over the maternal role. They are doing well at their current foster home.

Lucia

Lucia, 15, is currently in the 8^th grade where she participates in extracurricular activities, including soccer. She has improved in taking responsibility for her schoolwork over years past and has improved in family and interpersonal relationships. Though Lucia will complete her schoolwork, she is not overly interested in on academic subject over the other. However, she is interested in pursuing studies in beauty related fields such as cosmetology or being a beautician. She also likes to cook and is constantly trying to learn and perfect new skills.  Lucia is overall healthy, but will need to continue mental health services to help her work through her past trauma and to transition to a new family.

While Lucia tends to be an independent young lady, she seeks the approval of the adults she trusts to feel safe and confident. Her ability to control her emotions and anxiety has increased and she is learning ways of coping with her anxiety in productive ways. Due to past trauma, Lucia has exhibited a high need for control which contributed to her anxiety, but she has been learning to let go of some control and to allow herself to be in the role she should be in at her age and stage in life. Sadly, it is known that Lucia has been the victim of sexual abuse from at least two perpetrators—one prior to coming into care and one while in care. She self-reported these instances and has received psychological services to help her work through them. Lucia has come to realize that these instances were not her fault and is able to recognize that these instances do not define her. She has not sexually acted out toward others and has not participated in any self-harming behaviors.

As Lucia has continued to work through her past, she is evolving into a responsible and self-aware young lady. Lucia enjoys anything related to makeup and beauty as well as preparing special meals and desserts. When Lucia is happy, it is clearly seen in her face and continence—she literally often jumps for joy.

Charles

Charles, 9, is in the third grade at his new school after the siblings were moved to a new foster home. However, he is supposed to be in the second grade with an individual education plan that had not yet been implemented at the new school as of the time of the report. As a result, his academic performance has been poor this year, but they were supposed to re-implement his plan. Charles has a specialized plan due to a diagnosis of mild mental retardation (F708). Overall, Charles is a very collaborative child with a high sense of belonging who enjoys interactions with his peers. He is motivated by being included in activities and also by being recognized for acts of service. He is able to care for himself independently in an age-appropriate manner.

Charles’ motor skills are age-appropriate, but he does receive occupational therapy and speech therapy. On his IQ testing, he scored 68, but there is a high probability that the score actually falls in the 63-77 range due to some discrepancy between composite indices. More information is available in the child study and available documents. In addition to the diagnosis of mild mental retardation, he was diagnosed in January 2025 with conduct disorder not otherwise specified (F919) and disturbance of activity and attention (F900). He takes daily medication. Charles also wears glasses and had a diagnosis in April 2025 of blepharitis (H010) which is receiving care from the optometrist for.

The change of foster homes has been difficult for Charles, though it was necessary for the protection of the children. Coupled with the change in caregivers and environment is the expected changes in Lucia as she is now older and wants to live the more autonomous life of a teenager that is not filled with being his caregiver as was previously her role. These changes have left Charles feeling lonely and confused. These emotions have affected his behavior, and he sometimes has tantrums or becomes upset easily. It is important to note that Charles has no history of known sexual abuse but was subject as a toddler to the domestic abuse and control from his older brother when he and Lucia were in their birth family.

Charles enjoys going outside, playing football and soccer, going to the park and watching movies. He also enjoys building with blocks.

Bella is a sweet 8-year-old smiley girl who needs a family dedicated to helping her reach her optimal potential. Though she has multiple diagnoses including cerebral palsy, she has made great strides with therapy over time. For example, she has dyskinetic cerebral palsy with dystonia affecting her lower limbs. In 2021, she received Botox injections that gave her great improvement in the use of her legs. Bella receives physical therapy and is currently capable of taking 2-3 steps on her own, but can stand, walk, and go up/down stairs with support.

Bella receives occupational therapy which has helped her be able to scribble with crayons, feed herself, open food containers and snack packages, etc. While she does not speak, she is able to make her needs and wants known through gestures facial expressions, vocalizations, and also through picture cards. She knows a few signs as well such as “thank you.” Due to Bella’s multiple diagnoses, she requires assistance with her daily living activities though she is able to take part in her care.

Bella was born exposed to and addicted to drugs. Following her birth, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy characterized by dyskinesia and spastic quadriplegia, microcephaly, strabismus, global developmental delay, and severe intellectual disability. In 2017, she was also diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

It is clear that Bella has established a bond with her caregivers and she enjoys their presence. She greets her teachers and plays clapping games with them. She is able to pay attention during lessons and has demonstrated the ability to learn. While she will always need a caregiver, it is believed that being in a loving family will help Bella continue to develop and grow in her abilities.  She enjoys playing on a sit-n-spin, swinging or playing on a see-saw. She is drawn to mirrors and toys with lights and/or music.

Marcy is a 4 year old girl with frontal craniostenosis and tuberous sclerosis. Marcy was diagnosed with conductive and sensorineural deafness. Non-orbidity of both eyes. The girl currently does not use corrective glasses, as recommended by ophthalmologists. She is generally cheerful, and is able to imitate gestures and independently eat meals. She struggles with dressing herself and identifying some shapes and colors. Marcy is able to respond to simple commands and messages. She enjoys playing with toys and demonstrates improvement in her coordination. She is very patient and kind. It is recommended for her to wear glasses. Her speech development is delayed, but she can still communicate, and she has demonstrated improvement. Above all she is a nice girl with very many good qualities.

Kaylee resides at the foster family. She is open, energetic and cheerful child who is curious about the world, eager to learn and makes friends easily. She attends preschool since September 2023. She is physically active girl; she can run and jump, can throw and kick a ball, she can climb. She can do many things without any help (eat, dress/undress).  She is very polite and there are no concerns with her behavior. Her vocabulary is growing, and she is catching up with her development.

Lily (6) is also described as friendly and one who likes to help others. She has delays in her fine motor skills, though improving, and her speech development. She is receiving therapy for both. Lily is a hyperactive child who has recently started taking medication and it seems to be helping, especially with her night movements which have included head banging which has significantly decreased. She lives to sing and dance as well as draw.

Pia (5) is described as a friendly, kind-hearted and playful child who expresses her emotions readily. However, while she shares her emotions readily, sometimes she has difficulty controlling her emotions and is in therapy to assist her with this—yet it is reported that temper tantrums are not frequent and she is able to regain emotional regulation quickly. She has age appropriate gross and fine motor skills as well as speech development. She loves to sing and dance.

The girls are listed for adoption together. Their older sister, Winnie, is also available for adoption (but separately).  The agency is hoping to find two families, so the girls can maintain contact.

Winnie is described as a cheerful and friendly girl who enjoys interacting with people. Unfortunately, Winnie has had too many placements for her young age and it is believe this has affected her development in various areas. With therapy, Winnie now has age-appropriate gross and fine motor skills and has improved SIGNIFICANTLY in speech development. While her IQ was assessed to be 82, she is showing steady improvement in her academic studies.  She has had some behavioral struggles, but since starting a new primary school in September, she is exhibiting the ability to stay calm and control her emotions and behaviors with guidance. Winnie enjoys arts and crafts, and she is very excited at the prospect of finding a family.

Winnie has two sisters who are also available for adoption, but separately from Winnie. The agency is hoping to find two families, so the girls can stay in touch.

Ariana is a young girl waiting for a loving family of her own.

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There is a $500 agency fee reduction for Ariana’s adoption. Additional agency fee reductions may be available based on the adoptive family’s circumstances.  If you are interested in reviewing Ariana’s file or in adopting Ariana, please contact the agency for additional information.

SN:  Moderate intellectual disability, Asperger’s syndrome, sensory hypersensitivity

Maeve is a six year old girl with moderate intellectual disability and Asperger’s syndrome. She attends a kindergarten where she receives therapy for movement, speech, and autism. She had disorders in speech, balance, and coordination. She gets anxious when on unstable ground. She has been making tremendous improvement lately. Maeve struggles with sensory hypersensitivity. She is capable of building relationships with her peers and caregivers.

Despite being able to communicate verbally, her speech used to be unclear, but lately it has improved tremendously. Recently, she has become more and more independent. Maeve stands out from the rest of the children at the orphanage.

Mia is a cheerful and smiley girl. She has been diagnosed with spastic diplegia, severe mental grade intellectual disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with no current medication needed. She is currently taking sleeping and vitamin supplements. Mia has divergent squint, hypertropia and astigmatism. She is recommended to wear glasses but she shows resistance as she does not like anything to be put on her face or head. Nevertheless, her vision seems not to be affected significantly during classes. Mia was assessed to have severe gross motor delay with dystonia but her walking was commented to become more stable.

Mia is currently attending a special school children with severe intellectual disability and multiple disabilities. She has made steady progress in her development and shown an interest in interacting with adults and peers. She is well loved by her school teachers and caregivers and is one of the brightest students in her special school. She enjoys listening  to children’s songs, playing with spinning and musical toys, watching cartoons, playing with the swing during leisure time. Regarding her self-care skills, Mia needs assistance in teeth brushing and washing up and she does not like these tasks. She wears diapers all day long. She receives regular potty training and can urinate on the potty occasionally. She needs assistance in dressing but is able to take off her clothes, shoes and AFOs. She is also learning to put on her shirt when being prompted.  She sits in a chair with a safety belt when her caregiver helps her to take a shower.

Mina is a beautiful little girl who likes to paint and play “sleepover” with her friends. Mina likes to go to the park and put together puzzles. She also loves to sing and listen to music of all genres, especially tango. Mina enjoys children’s stories and watching her favorite cartoons, which include Masha and the Bear, Puss in Boots, and Blue Shortcuts. Contact the agency to learn more about Mina and her listed medical needs!

The agency staff met lovely Mina in August 2024. She was very talkative and outgoing. She doesn’t allow her special needs to limit her. Mina, born in November of 2016, knows how to start and maintain a conversation. She is very observant and knows how to ask questions and engage in it and the context. She uses very sophisticated words for a seven year old – it was impressive!! She knows how to count in English from one to ten, knows some colors in English, and knows the colors in Spanish. She has a great memory and can remember facts. Mina can easily express her thoughts and ideas.

Mina likes to paint and play “sleepovers” with her friends. Mina likes to go to the park, put together puzzles. She also loves to sing, listen to music of all genres, especially tango. Mina enjoys children’s stories and watching her favorite cartoons (Masha and the Bear, Puss in Boots, Blue Shortcuts).

VIDEOS:
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina2
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina3
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina4
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina5
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina6
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina7
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina8
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-mina9
Password: Adoptmaa

Mina also has a $500 agency fee reduction, with a specific adoption agency.

Sally had one seizure at age one. She’s been on seizure medication since that time and has not had any additional seizures. She touches and grabs with her right hand and moves her right foot. The left hand is almost clenched in a fist. Her muscles are very tight, but she can sit up when placed in that position. She will reach and grab toys with her right hand. She tracks objects that are moving in front of her face. She laughs when adults interact with her. She makes sounds and produces syllabes when imitating someone. She enjoys musical toys and will scoot to get to a toy that is near her when on the floor. She is fed by an adult and can eat from a spoon.

Information in this report is from March 2023 when Jana was 5. The adoption agency has medical records and pictures for Jana dating back to 2019.

Jana entered care at one year of age due to abandonment and negligence. Within her foster home, it is evident that Jana likes to interact with others. In her own special way, Jana is able to share and receive affection. She communicates with others through body language and eye movements. The foster mother has learned to read her body movements to identify if something is bothering her. Jana responds to stimuli generated through loud voices. Due to her medical diagnoses, she needs constant supervision and guidance to fulfill all her daily routines. Jana´s gross and fine motor development is delayed. Her cognitive development is severely damaged due to her medical diagnoses. She wears diapers all day. Jana spends her days seated in her wheelchair or laying down in her bed when she sleeps. She receives therapy and medication through her gastrostomy.

According to the foster mother, Jana loves to receive massages. She likes when people speak to her in a soft voice. Jana enjoys going outside for short periods.

Two sisters in Mexico who have a close bond. They are described as healthy, calm, do well in school, have no behavior issues and have been out of their family’s care since 2019.

The older sister tends to be self conscious and shy when meeting new people or in new environments. The younger sister is described as extroverted and participative and needs some academic support.

Bless was born in June 2019. She resides in a Home for Medical and Social Care.
Bless was born from a pathological pregnancy, 3rd degree premature, experienced fetal asphyxia and congenital measles infection with subsequent spasticity of the 4 limbs, oral automatisms, severe retardation in neuro-psychic development, blindness as a result of retinopathy of prematurity.

She does not respond to sound signals. She does not blink. She often suffers from respiratory diseases. Bless turns from her back to her stomach and vice versa but prefers to remain in a supine position. From a supine position, she pushes herself up with her legs and shoulders and moves into space. She obliges herself in a passive sitting position in a walker. She has control over her head. She steps on her toes, but there is no support for her legs. The child holds a toy placed by the adult in her hand, puts it in her mouth, but for a short time. Undeveloped impressive and expressive vocabulary. Increased sound sensitivity. Spontaneously utters vocals and guttural sounds. She does not pay attention to her surroundings. The child is fed by an adult. She falls asleep on her own. She is completely dependent on the adult.

Rosita is a sweet young girl waiting for a family of her own. We hope Rosita’s forever family sees her while she’s still so young! Contact the agency to learn more about Rosita and her listed medical needs!

VIDEOS:

https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-rosita
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-rosita1
https://vimeo.com/maaspecialkids/maa-rosita02
Password: Adoptmaa

Agency fee reductions may be available based on the adoptive family’s circumstances.

Natasha is a pretty little girl, with very calm with big eyes and beautiful white teeth. She is very special. She doesn’t smile at everyone. She must first know you, and trust you, but her smile is fascinating. She loves to drink juice and she likes to eat sweets. She really likes music. She likes to be pampered by her foster family and only cries if she needs a little attention.

In therapy, she works on ways to improve her functional mobility, and increase the functional use of her arms. At school, she does a lot of sensory activities to work on ways to respond and communicate better and fixate her eyes on objects to learn.

SN: FAS, motor aphasia, celiac disease, hyperopia

 

This girl is much loved by her caregiver and peers! She lived with her biological family for 2 years and was neglected. After a few years in the foster family, she was placed to the orphanage where she adjusted well.  She established a positive relationship with others. She likes to cuddle and is seeking the contact with adults. She is a little bit behind for her age, but she is a smart girl with a lot of potential. She is attending a regular school and her teachers like her.

Sadie has limited movement in her neck, back and hands/arms (due to limited movement of the shoulders). She has more range of motion in her left arm vs her right. She compensates for her limited mobility. She stands on her toes to reach objects (when she cannot extend her arms) and holds on to a support to bend down or she seeks assistance from an adult. She walks, plays with toys, and interacts with her environment. She can put together wooden puzzles, stack rings and perform other basic tasks. She can take the cap off a pen and tries to draw shapes. She interacts with familiar people. She initiates games such as peek-a-boo. She will point to things she wants to communicate her wants/needs. She dances along to music. She can say some simple single syllable words such as ma-ma, but mostly communicates with gestures. She lived in a home with a younger child for a while and did well with the younger child. The foster family limits her interactions with other people, because they are afraid she will get hurt, due to her physical limitations. She plays well with other people, when she is around them. She does not go to preschool due to the fear her foster family has that she will be injured. She shows a preference to certain objects and TV shows (Peppa Pig and Masha the Bear).

Videos from May 2022 show Sadie walking, playing with toys, putting a puzzle together and interacting with adults. The videos show Sadie’s physical limitations.

Esta, Sophie and Luke are waiting for a family in Latin America.

Esta is an affectionate child who loves dance, judo, art and making bracelets. She has a strong bond with her siblings and relates well with her caregivers and peers. She is clinically healthy with good physical and motor development.

Sophie shows leadership skills even at her young age when playing with others. She also participates in judo, ballet and other workshops. She also likes to participate in tours to exhibits, the cinema and theater. he also exhibits a strong bond with her siblings and is well-adapted at the institution she lives in.

Luke is an active little boy who loves to play ball. He is bonded with his siblings and interacts well with those at the institution.

The children have experienced trauma in their past and will need to continue to receive counseling to help through the transition to an adoptive family and to continue to work through their past. They are doing well though as they receive services in country. Esta received corrective surgery for a cleft palate and Luke has myopia and strabismus for which he receives care. Aside from her trauma care, Sara has no known needs. All of the children follow the Christian faith.

Zoey is one of the most beautiful little girls you’ll ever meet. She was born with some developmental delays, but then experienced a stroke when she was two and a half. This greatly set back her abilities. However, since then she’s been in a foster family where she’s relearned how to sit, roll, and grasp toys. She is working on self-feeding and becoming verbal again. Although Zoey had a seizure with her stroke she hasn’t had one since, and rarely requires medical care now. However, she may benefit from a better neurologist to understand her brain’s unique functions and abilities. Zoey is not short of opinions and will let you know exactly how she is feeling with tears or laughter! She loves to play and her giggle is absolutely infectious. She loves playing with water, musical instruments, and anything that makes noise. Zoey also loves to eat and isn’t picky at all! She is a social girl who has loved having two foster brothers. Zoey will bring an abundance of joy to any family who chooses to love her forever!

June is a little girl, but she can make a lot of noise! You can often hear her in every room of the children’s home. Just when you start reading a story or giving directions June will start up, blowing raspberries or just experimenting with how high she can yell. When she’s feeling less feisty June loves to cuddle. She enjoys spending time in someone’s arms or a carrier, and will often fall asleep there. June cannot see well so she prefers toys that make lots of noise- she’s especially good at using her legs to kick the piano mat or crinkle wrapping paper. She also enjoys being tickled or gently bounced on a lap. June is working very hard at sitting up on her own- she has fantastic head control, can flip herself onto her stomach, and is also improving at grasping toys independently. June would benefit from good medical care to better control her epilepsy. She will bring lots of noise and fun, as well as an abundance of love to any family that chooses to bring her home.

Viv is a cute little girl who likes watching children’s videos and loves playing outside at the park. She loves music and dancing while sitting. Viv gets excited when playing with dolls and listening to music. Her general development is within her age range, but a little behind because of her skin condition. Contact the adoption agency to learn more about Viv and her listed medical condition!

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Siblings Ariel and Gabe, lived with their mother and older brother until they were placed in residential care over five years ago.

The siblings go to school and enjoy time with their friends. They follow routines for eating sleeping and personal care with minimal support. Their vaccinations are up-to-date and they have routine health checks. Ariel has managed psoriasis with the support of medication and therapies, while also enjoying the gifts of dance, music, and social activities. Gabe has had a minor surgical procedure, that he now manages with medications. He has medications and therapy for behavior support.

Academically, Ariel is in her fourth year and Gabe his second year.
Gabe enjoys watching tv, playing games, painting, and caring for animals. He attends a catechism class and church services. He may have behavior outbursts.

Both children are working through the child preparation plan for adoption.

Maria (6) is very sociable girl and likes to start conversations with adults. She asks them questions, seeks attention and affection. She has the most skills expected for her age in the areas of language, motor skills, sociability and learning. Maintains a close affective and communication bond with her siblings. Maria was diagnosed in 2020 with local epilepsy of which she is currently under follow-up and treatment with magnesium valproate. She has not presented convulsive events to date. She also presents a diagnosis of intolerance to lactose. She is in the 3rd year of preschool.

Brenda (7) is known for her intelligence and autonomy. She learns easily and despite her young age, has great confidence in her abilities to perform any activity assigned to her. She seeks academic challenges and enjoys increasing her skills and knowledge. She is more selective with others although she is affectionate with her siblings. She likes to play individual games, loves to play to babies, draw, video games and coloring. Her favorite activity is playing soccer with her brother. She reflects a healthy emotional state. Brenda has a suitable academic performance and is in the first grade at a Montessori school. She presents a good state of health and is diagnosed with a history of trauma cranioencephalic without clinical repercussions with a history of violence family (Assessed by neurology with CT and EEG reporting normal).

Marcely (8) is described as in good health. She has favorable development in all areas. She is tender and collaborative with adults, she is also very active, and likes to keep moving, climbing, running, skating or cycling. She loves playing with dolls and coloring. Once her confidence is gained, she enjoys giving lots of hugs. She has built a healthy bond with her siblings which contributes to her self-esteem and feeling of protection. She is in the second grade and has an interest in learning and collaborating with adults. She has improved in her impulsivity control and emotional responses.

Jose (10) is intelligent, kind, friendly and bold and affectionate with adults and their colleagues. He has a protective attitude towards his sisters, shows them affection, but also seeks his own friends and does his activities independently. He has a leadership role with colleagues. He is competitive but also sensitive to needs and emotions of others. Jose shows emotional stability, establishes close and healthy social and emotional ties with peers and adults. His development is corresponding to his chronological age. He presents a state of good health and has a diagnosis of myopia and asthmatic which is being treated. He is in the 4th grade and interacts appropriately with his colleagues and guides.

Vanessa (11) has a calm temperament and has developed self-confidence and loving attitude towards her caregivers and siblings. She is very independent in her routine activities, helps younger children and assumes a role of caregiver. She enjoy activities like reading, coloring, making bracelets and playing with dolls. Vanessa is diagnosed with developmental delay psychomotor and speech disorders, ADHD, learning disorder, disorder secondary cognitive development, disorder specific pronunciation, delay expected physiological development for age and seasonal allergic rhinitis. Despite this, she maintains good health and doesn’t take medicine. She is in 5th grade and has established important emotional ties with her colleagues and friends.

Janice enjoys outdoor activities, especially riding her tricycle, sliding down the slide in the neighborhood park and bouncing around a basketball.  When she isn’t participating in a physical activity, Janice likes reading books and singing nursery rhymes with “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” and “The Butterflies are so Beautiful” being her favorites!

Janice is shy around strangers, but interacts with them once she becomes familiar. Janice acts affectionately towards people she is familiar with and asks for cuddles. Janice has a close bond with her foster family and likes to seek their affection.

Janice has a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis with moderate cognitive and motor skills delays.  She currently attends physical, occupational and speech therapies. Janice has made good progress, and she is now able to climb stairs, jump on the ground 10 times in a row, and complete a 4 piece puzzle! At home, Janice will imitate her foster mother’s speech and ask questions.

Could you imagine pushing Janice on the swings at your neighborhood park or teaching her how to ride a bicycle?   If you think you could be the right family for her, don’t hesitate to reach out

Introducing….Natala! Natala likes crawling, rolling around, and making sounds like she is talking. Sometimes, when she is unhappy, she lets you know by crying and fussing but will calm down quickly once attended to. Natala has good adaptability for a young child and is not shy with strangers. Currently, Natala takes 2 short naps each day, once in mid-morning and once in the early afternoon. Her nap schedule is flexible. She can flip herself over while lying down, stay seated for up to 20 minutes with support, and has recently started crawling! Because she has high muscle tension, her legs sometimes stay lifted slightly in the air while crawling. Among many other capabilities, Natala is able to grasp objects in each hand and pass them from one hand to the other. Although Natala has delayed speech, she has shown progress between her most two recent visits in March and August of 2021. She currently understands a couple of simple words including ‘goodbye’ and ‘kiss’, in her language of course, and has normal hearing. Doctors are monitoring mild vision damage and plan to continue to assess her vision as she develops. Natala has also been diagnosed with epilepsy however since beginning medication, no tremors or twitching have been observed. Natala is currently being cared for by a foster family and has formed appropriate attachment to her foster mother. Young Natala needs a forever family that can support her, love her, and celebrate along with her as she continues to reach milestones. Could you be that family?

Update 2022:

Natala participated in our February 2022 Virtual Superkids trip.  She was 2 1/2 years old during the visit. Natala is a special girl who will require lifelong care by her adoptive parents.

Natala expresses her joy through smiling and laughing.  She enjoys toys that make sounds and lights up when playing with dolls.  She expresses sadness through crying.  Natala has global delays in development and non-verbal.  She is most comforted and connected to her foster mother.