They were classmates.
Ryan found his sixth grade picture, and Alex said, “I know you! You were a little silly and quiet.” Alex then found her sixth grade picture, and Ryan could vaguely remember.
This was the first time I’ve ever heard what a fellow student thought of one of my sons at that time. No one ever described Ryan as silly, but if she weren’t aware that Ryan had autism, that is very understandable. A mom always worries about how her sons fit in, especially a mom of special needs kids.
The rest of the session was remembering shared experiences and memories: science camp where Mr. Adams proposed to Miss Nelson, sixth grade teachers, friends and classmates, etc. Ryan talked a lot. He smiled and even laughed a few times. I could not believe the lively interaction between therapist and client.
Nick was two years behind Ryan, so Nick and Alex’ paths did not cross much. Nick does not remember her, but he smiled when I told him Alex went to the same elementary school.
What a turn of events! The boys now will really be working with a peer, which is exactly what they need. I am really looking forward to this new perspective for the boys’ continued growth towards independence!