One of the hardest things to instill in Jessie is stranger-danger. Everyone to her is a new friend. She has no fear, until it comes to crying children or loud adults. We've worked on stranger-danger for years and years. We've finally gotten where she'll shake someone's hand and not hug them, at least right away. People with Down Syndrome tend to be very loving individuals, and Jess is very loving to people, even ones she does not know.
In a world where terror reigns and danger could be lurking just around the corner, it's hard to figure out how much we tell Jessie about bad people. I don't want to get her paranoid, but she needs to know that she can't be friends with a stranger. She's also quick as lightning - she knows when you are distracted, even for a second - then makes her move!
Today Debbie had her at the Secretary of State's office and Jess stood with Debbie at the counter while she took care of some business. Then Jess decided to go sit down. That was OK and Debbie kept looking around and checking on her. I would have done the same thing. All was well until Debbie turned around and Jessie was gone! She was over by the window, sitting next to a very handsome young man, hand on his thigh and smiling!!!
Horrified, Debbie bolted over to her and said, "What are you doing?" She apologized to the man, who didn't seem to be concerned, then asked Jessie if she had a new friend. She just smiled!
Guess we'll concentrate a little harder on stranger-danger in the next few days.
Love that! I can certainly relate. At the time, you're horrified, but when it ends well, it makes for sweet memories!
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