Making Friends

Play dates are always something I have set up and encouraged Landon to attend. I know socialization is very important in a young one's life. I also know what a challenge this can be for kids with Autism. We are very lucky that Sarah and I both had our baby girls around the same time so we have been able to schedule many play dates with these two cutie pies. Mckenna is a wonderful and patient friend to Landon. I am not sure she knows how special she is to him. For whatever reason Landon has taken to Mckenna and occasionally will interact and play with her. Most of the time they are typical toddlers who play around each other but there are those moments that melt my heart when the two of them interact and play. The day that Landon asked to play with Mckenna by name made me cry. I of course texted Sarah to share my joy! We consider Mckenna to be one of Landon's forever friends and thank her for the wonderful things she has taught Landon. I remember the day Landon was so excited to jump with both feet leaving the ground. It was literally a few hours after leaving a park play date with Mckenna where she was a jumping machine.

I do my best to set up play dates with other boys and girls so Landon learns the importance of social interaction and friends. I have some amazing friends who will work around our schedule and go places that are easy for me to get to and "kid friendly." I hope that soon enough he will be asking me to go outside and play with his friends.