A Boy Who Waits: Meet Tian Tian

We recently spoke with Jane Steinmetz and Cheryl Heley, volunteers with Red Thread Charities, about some of the children they met while working in orphanages in Asia. One of the boys who made an impression on them was nicknamed Tian Tian; a bright, kind and curious little six year old.

Tian Tian is a little helper: frequently helping the nannies and several of his friends who have Cerebral Palsy. “He told us, when he grows up, he wants to be a teacher,” said Cheryl.

He has to limit his strenuous activity, but this doesn’t hold him back from having fun. Jane noted “he’s able to play with the other kids on the playground.” When asked what animal he would be and why, he said he wanted to be a duck “because they can swim,” Cheryl explained, “He likes to play in the water.”

Tian Tian really wants a family and has told his class he is going to America and not coming back.

Watch Videos of Tian Tian

Tian Tian playing with blocks and singing >

Having fun on the playground >

Learn More About Tian Tian

Tian Tian is one of the boys currently waiting for an adoptive family. Do you have room for one more in your family? If so, please contact intchild@chsfs.org to learn more about Tian Tian and be sure to reference 215-11.

Children's Home Society of Minnesota

With a combined 275 years of experience, Children’s Home Society of Minnesota and Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota serve children and families through adoption, child welfare, and family preservation. We are driven by the understanding that a child in a safe, nurturing home is a child who thrives. We work to give every child security, opportunity and a loving family. Through our partnership, we offer the following services to families nationwide. We encourage you to visit the Lutheran Social Service Rainbow Kids page to view additional country programs.

International & Domestic Adoption — Respected for our legacy of excellence in adoption services, Children's Home and Lutheran Social Service believe that every child deserves a permanent, loving family. Today the need for adoption is most urgent for older children, sibling groups, children with a history of abuse and neglect, and children with known medical and special needs.

Post-Placement Support & Connections — Children's Home and Lutheran Social Service are committed to supporting all members of the adoption circle throughout their lifelong journey. We are proud to offer educational and cultural events, travel, search and background services, and opportunities to connect to the larger adoption community.

International Child Welfare — Children's Home and Lutheran Social Service recognize an inherent responsibility to improve the quality of life in countries where we facilitate international adoption. We support targeted, community-based projects that provide care, protection, health and education to vulnerable children around the world.