like calvin

Today I met a new friend at the park. She has three little kids including one boy with down syndrome.  On the way home Clare asked, "Mom, you know that boy with blond hair? Is he kind of like Calvin?"  I said yes. I explained how he has an extra chromosome and develops differently than most kids.

I thought it was interesting that clare grouped Calvin and this boy in the same category. She doesn't have language for them like special needs or handicapped but it is plain to see, in her experience, that some kids do not behave like others.  I was next going to write that I hope she has compassion for these special kids but I do not even need to say that. I know she does. She is a sweet girl.