How do I act around this child?

[Anonymous]

I never felt like anyone was giving me a hard time. But, yeah. The thought that I have Aspergers crosses my mind from time to time, although it was actually the last thing on my mind when I wrote my original post. Then I wrote the shirt comment, and was like, "Oh, well, yeah, there it is." That being said, I've never been diagnosed (and thanks to a PP, surfed onto a blog that explained why women can slide through life with it, yet undiagnosed....wow....so eye-opening) so it's not something I have in "common" with a six year old who's struggling enough that someone noticed. It's not enough that I know how to interact with him, anyway! Or any children, really.

Although now I'm wondering if his mom, who has already shown to be a bit of an autism expert, is going to notice my weirdness and think of me as more of a project than a friend.

[Anonymous]

PP here- as a parent of a child with special needs I don't look for projects in my friends. I am just grateful to be with adults who don't judge my kids. Sorry my color comment wasn't a great example. I find that a single, simple and sincere compliment goes a long way to starting a relationship with anyone.

You'll be fine. Your asking this question demonstrates a degree of interpersonal sensitivity that will serve you well.

[Anonymous]

It may be that she has some Aspie tendencies too (most parents of these kids do) and that's part of why you like her and she likes you! I am always thrilled to meet people who remind me of my kid, and not because I want to take on a project.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It may be that she has some Aspie tendencies too (most parents of these kids do) and that's part of why you like her and she likes you! I am always thrilled to meet people who remind me of my kid, and not because I want to take on a project.

OP here - I like this theory a lot more!