I can hear
You can speak normally. I just cannot answer with a spoken voice.
Hang out with me
Let me share the useful stuff first. Then choose a game, a walk, some music or whatever sounds good.
Before we hang out
Here are the basics, so neither of us has to guess what the other person needs.
I type
Please leave enough quiet for me to finish. The pause is part of our conversation.
Look at me
The tablet says my words, but it is not the person you are hanging out with.
Ask before touch
Hugs, hair, hands and helping with my device all need a question first.
Panic is different
If I freeze, stop asking questions. Give me space and get a trusted adult.
A flat battery is not the end
I still have my phone, paper, gestures, signs and a very expressive face.
What should we do?
Two controllers, no voice chat required.
You can show me the controls, wait while I type between rounds and enjoy the game without turning my communication into the main event.
Try my pace
There is no countdown. Press once to give me the pause; press again to start over.
You: Want to play another round?
Me: typing…
If something gets awkward
You interrupted me
Just say sorry and let me finish. No dramatic guilt scene needed.
I need quiet
Do not make it about whether I like you. My brain may simply be full.
You do not know what I mean
Ask one clear question. Do not pretend and do not hand my answer to someone else.
That is enough for a first hangout.
We can be awkward, funny, quiet, annoyed, interested or bored like any other people. Notice the person who is already there, and let the rest grow normally.