Emily Thompson’s son, Jamie, was diagnosed with autism and hyperlexia at a young age. Since starting to play Pokémon Go, Emily has observed remarkable changes in Jamie’s behavior. “I introduced Jamie to Pokémon Go last night, and let me tell you, it’s incredible!” Emily wrote. “After he caught his very first Pokémon at the local bakery, he was over the moon with excitement. He dashed outside to catch more!”
Emily noted that Jamie usually struggles with eye contact. “He makes eye contact with people he’s comfortable with, but with strangers? That’s a rarity. However, when he’s playing Pokémon Go, his usual boundaries seem to fade away.”
The game has not only encouraged Jamie to socialize more, but it has also helped him break away from his rigid routines. When a family friend mentioned the Pokémon activity at the playground, Jamie was eager to go, despite typically avoiding such outings at night. “He’s usually so strict about his schedule, but last night, he was thrilled to change things up! We were amazed!”
At the playground, Jamie began interacting with other children right away. “He was actually talking to other kids. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry!” Emily exclaimed. “Even adults were hunting Pokémon and were so friendly, giving him tips like, ‘There’s one just around the corner, buddy! Go get it!’ He even looked up to say ‘THANK YOU!’ before running off. It was incredible!”
Since embracing the game, Jamie has also become more communicative outside of play. Emily shared a touching moment when Jamie spoke with their pharmacist for the first time, telling him about his new game. “The pharmacist leaned in and said, ‘That’s the most he’s ever said to me…ever!’ and he’s known Jamie since he was a baby,” she recounted.
While many have raised concerns about Pokémon Go, Emily’s experience highlights some of the positives: “My autistic child is socializing! He’s engaging with people, smiling, and even making eye contact—sometimes! It’s really amazing!”
For more insights on parenting and fertility, you can check out this article on home insemination or visit Makeamom.com for expert advice on your journey. Additionally, Parents.com provides valuable resources for understanding IVF and home insemination.
In summary, Emily’s heartfelt post illustrates how Pokémon Go has transformed her son Jamie’s social interactions, fostering connections and encouraging him to step out of his comfort zone.