Selected Memory

We’ve lived in the same house for over six years. Alexander still can’t remember our neighbors’ names. No, I am not joking.

We meet with our neighbors almost every week and we’ve spent most of the holidays together for years. I’ve drawn each family tree and taught Alexander over and over again. Alexander only remembers some kids who play with him often, no more and even then he doesn’t always remember. Today, we went to Kelly’s house (the house right in our front door) to find some books her elder son no longer need. I thought Alexander knew exactly which house and whom I was talking about. Just before I got my shoes ready, Alexander asked me: Is the house with swimming pool? (FYI – the house with the swimming is our neighbor on another street).

I paused. This is an unbelievably selective memory. We just spent last weekend together, four days ago, and how could he not know Kelly?!

And yet, Alexander knows all his favorites books, video game level details, and he can read very well.

I plan to take few pictures and review with him. Hopefully, by this Christmas, Alexander will know our neighbors names. Thanks to all of our nice neighbors, they are always very patient with Alexander and repeat for him their names every time. I can only say, Alexander has an unbelievable selective memory.