Challenger baseball…Aptly named.
In the past, Jojo has had plenty of “challenges” with his baseball team.
His first year, he would run around the outfield all game and not stop until his turn to bat. I had to stand on the field with him just to keep him corralled and try to distract him in any way I could.
His second year, we got him to actually pay attention to the rest of the game, but he would kick dirt and throw rocks at everyone for fun. When not batting, he would run to wherever there were geese. He loves geese.
Jonny would get distressed because Jonah would misbehave and Jonny would feel responsible for keeping him on task and out of trouble. He would get so anxious about Jonah’s antics that he would sit in the stands most the game so he could look away from what Jonah was doing.
Jonny almost didn’t play again after that.
Now, in his fifth year, Jonah is completely dialed in to the game. When on defense, he goes after the ball on (literally) EVERY play.
Unless, of course, there is a bee around. We can’t concentrate on baseball with bees around. (Who can, really.)
When batting, Jonah hits the ball on the first or second pitch and does a happy skip to first base. He runs the bases with vigor and a grin.
This year, I can sit in the stands without any worries. I can have fun and enjoy the game.
This year, Jonny has nothing to worry about from his brother.
This year, the best day of the week is “game day.”
#challengerbaseball #LittleLeague #autism #ausome