Dakota

Many of our children here on the Heart Gallery grew up in a home with almost no supervision. While this may sound like every kid’s dream come true – Hey, I get to do whatever I want! – it actually negatively affects nearly every aspect of their lives. They don’t learn what behaviors are normal and acceptable and they have no concept of consequences for their behaviors. They don’t receive nurturing or comforting when they’re scared or guidance or instruction when they’re developing their young minds. This isn’t their fault, but the absence of these simple things put them far behind their peers academically, socially and behaviorally. This is the kind of childhood our friend Dakota experienced. Now 12 years old, Dakota has made incredible progress in all areas of his life thanks to the unwavering support of his caregivers and support team, but he still has days when he falls back into old habits. Those days are becoming fewer and fewer as he continues to experience “normal” parenting and support from those who love him. Dakota is a great kid who thrives in a home defined by structure, consistency and loving care. If you think you might like to help Dakota continue to become the young man he was meant to be all along, let us know! 3378296

Age: 14