When Eli was diagnosed ... When I listened to the child psychologist, and the clinic coordinator, and the therapists, I couldn't help but have my mind wander to Logan.
How would this affect him? How would he take this? How do you explain to a four-year-old that he can't behave in a way that his brother does. That what he sees from this little giant isn't acceptable coming from him. That it isn't okay for him to do what his brother does day in and day out without the same reaction we would give him. That his brother can do things he simply can't.
How do you explain to your bigger little what it is to have a sibling who is autistic.
Logan has been sick for the last two days. He is - without question - the kindest, most patient patient you will ever come across. He was so concerned that he would get his brother sick. So concerned if Eli got too close or if Eli tried to drink out of his cup.
It was precious to see.
This evening Logan sat down with Eli and watched youtube videos of people playing with Thomas trains with him. He clicked on the videos that Eli pointed to, and asked Eli what the names were of the trains on the screen. He stayed patient while he tried to understand what exactly his little brother wanted.
Together they giggled and sang along and talked about trains and their colors and their numbers. Logan took his time to spend with Eli doing something that Eli loves.
Logan couldn't care less about trains and will tell you (away from Eli, of course) that he doesn't like Thomas the Tank Engine "at all".
He is such a good kiddo.
He has learned the trains' names, their numbers, their colors. When Eli is having a melt down he tries his best to comfort him, tell him it's okay, keep calm beside him. He doesn't retaliate when Eli hits or kicks or screams.
He amazes me every day. Every day.
He doesn't "even like" Thomas the Train but he loves his little brother. And for him, he is so good at pretending.
Proud of you, kiddo. What a wonderful brother for a little giant to have.
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