What's Tommy Into?

Sometimes people ask me interesting questions when I tell them my son is blind. Recently, someone asked me, "What's he into?"

Tom and his gross dog toy. It farts and he thinks that is wonderful!

That question really got me thinking because that's not the usual follow-up question that most people have. Usually people ask me if he was born blind, or they don't know what to say and they look uncomfortable. I usually follow up with, "He's fine! He's a happy little guy in preschool." And he is!

"What's he into?" got me thinking. At the time I said music and movement. That is true, but in general I think Tom is into people, music, and experiences. He latches onto people and experiences and talks about them long after. In November we drove to Virginia and saw my brother and his family, and my aunt and uncle, and Tom has been talking about them since. You would think he saw these people every day!

This summer he talked about his aides and his teacher from school. You could tell that he just couldn't wait to see them again! He has a terrific memory. If your child is blind, do they have a similar memory for experiences and people?

Tom had a great time during the holidays and I know it was because of all the family and friends we saw. He didn't talk about his toys, he talked about the people we met and the songs he heard. Tonight he asked to listen to Joy to the World and Silent Night.

Tom does experience things differently from sighted children. Sure, I can sometimes get sad about the holiday spectacle that Tom missed, but I think Tom helps me see things that I miss. He helps me focus on people and experiences. Does it really matter how great everything looks for the holidays? Not to Tommy. He focuses on the holiday experience. I think that is a good thing for all of us to remember.

 We took a little blogging break but now we are back. I hope you all had a great holiday and wish everyone a happy New Year!