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Best friend wanted for special needs child, nine
Simon Bristow A LOVING mum is advertising for a best friend for her lonely son because he struggles to make pals due to his condition.
Excitable nine-year-old Joshua Fletcher has complex special needs that means he will not eat different foods on the same plate, finds it hard to make friends and cannot control his behaviour.
Joshua was diagnosed as a two-year-old with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which can cause speech and language development problems.
Due to his behavioural difficulties, which include anxiety and a short attention span, Joshua has only ever been to one birthday party and has never had a best friend.
Now his mother, Keran Fletcher, from Hull has decided to advertise for a best pal for her lonely son.
The 33-year-old has placed cards in local shops and a similar notice in the classified adverts section of a local newspaper.
She said: "Joshua also has a social and communication disorder, which makes it difficult for him to make and keep friends.
"But he is a very friendly, playful boy who is inspired and driven, and has lots of energy.
"He meets up with other children at school and Kids Club, but he would dearly love a buddy to develop a real friendship with."
Joshua said he believes he has a lot to offer potential chums.
He said: "I think it is a good idea to find a special friend who understands me. I have a lot of interests.
"I love playing PlayStation 2 games, football and games like Connect 4. I also have a trampoline in the garden, which is good fun."
His mother said Joshua probably needed an older friend who could understand his problems.
She said: "Good and lasting friendships are what Joshua badly needs.
"It would also be great for his development."
Caroline Hensby, who runs the ADHD support website www.adders.org, said: "A lot of these children have wonderful qualities once you see beyond their difficulties and gain their trust.
"They can be some of the most loving children, but it can take patience and understanding to build up a friendship with them."
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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