Reuben (11 months)

Say hello to Reuben, a happy, cuddly little boy who has the sweetest and most gentle nature.

Reuben loves to be close to his carers – being held, rocked, or carried makes him feel safe and content. He has formed a strong, loving bond with his foster family, who describe him as a “curious little explorer” with a determined streak and a big appetite for attention and affection.

Reuben starts his day early with a feed and a cuddle before settling back to sleep until around 7am. When his curtains open, he loves watching the world wake up outside his window.

Throughout the day, he enjoys:

• Being carried in his sling so he can stay close to his foster carer
• Listening for her voice when she steps away
• Cuddling his favourite blanket
• Settling to sleep with a gentle rock or a soothing hand on his back

Evening time is extra special: warm baths followed by a calming baby massage help Reuben relax and drift into a peaceful sleep.

Reuben’s favourite things

• Morning playtime – he’s most relaxed after breakfast
• Rolling over on his mat (though he’s not a fan of staying on his tummy!)
• Watching colourful music shows on TV
• “Chatting” with friends and family on Facetime
• Looking at his own reflection, which makes him laugh every time
• Porridge, yoghurts and his usual milk feeds

Reuben is steadily developing and starting to meet his early milestones. Like all babies, he’ll need encouragement as he grows – especially with his gross motor skills as he learns to sit, crawl and explore the world more independently.

What Reuben needs

Reuben is too young to express his feelings, but it’s clear he thrives on:

• Love
• Consistency
• Gentle reassurance
• A family who can offer patience, stability and a nurturing home

He needs adoptive parents who can embrace his story, support him as he grows, and help him flourish into a confident and happy child.

Reuben may face some additional challenges as he grows, including potential developmental and health considerations linked to his early experiences and family background. These are being carefully monitored, and he is making steady progress. His foster carers and professionals describe him as a delightful, responsive little boy who is developing well.

The family we are seeking

Reuben needs a warm, committed family – single adopters or couples – who can offer:

• Long-term security
• Emotional attentiveness
• A calm and nurturing home
• An understanding of his background and potential future needs

There is no preference regarding religion, and we particularly welcome families who can positively support Reuben’s White and Black Caribbean heritage.

Support for you

If you adopt Reuben, you will be fully supported by Leicester City’s post-adoption team, including:

• Pre- and post-placement visits
• Access to therapeutic parenting courses
• Online and in-person learning opportunities
• Monthly Stay & Play sessions
• Twice-yearly post-adoption celebrations
• Access to the Adoption Support Fund
• Support with letterbox contact

This experienced team will be available throughout the early years of placement and beyond.

Could you be Reuben’s forever family?

Reuben is a joyful, affectionate baby with so much love to give. He deserves a family who will cherish him, celebrate his milestones, and offer the safety and stability he needs to grow into a confident young boy.

If you think you could be the family Reuben is waiting for, we would love to hear from you.