When an empathetic 8-year-old noticed a classmate, Conner Crites, crying in a corner before the first day of school, he approached him and offered comfort by holding his hand.
Christian Moore, preparing for his second-grade debut at Minneha Core Knowledge Elementary in Wichita, Kansas, recognized that Conner, who has autism and struggles with speech, was feeling overwhelmed by the new experience. Demonstrating kindness and understanding, Christian engaged with Conner, eventually walking hand in hand with him into the school building.
“Christian was there with Connor as he was crying in the corner, offering him comfort,” recounted Christian’s mom, Courtney Moore. “He took Connor’s hand and escorted him to the front door. We watched until the bell rang, and Christian walked him into the school. From that moment on, they formed an unbreakable bond.”
“Christian was nice to me. I was crying on the first day of school, and he helped me feel better. After that, I was happy,” shared Conner.
After learning about how Christian had helped her son, Conner’s mom, April Crites, felt deeply grateful. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation, explaining that she worries daily about the possibility of her son being bullied or teased at school due to his differences. However, witnessing the kindness Christian showed Conner filled her with joy and relief.
“I fear every day that someone is going to laugh at him because he doesn’t speak correctly, or laugh at him because he doesn’t sit still or because he jumps up and down and flaps his hands,” April shared. “I started crying when I saw the picture. I couldn’t believe it. The fact that Christian was able to be there and comfort Conner with a simple gesture was just awesome.”
“This absolutely warmed my heart. I’m so happy a caring little boy was so kind to my baby,” April added, expressing her gratitude for Christian’s compassion towards her son.
Courtney expressed immense pride in her son’s compassionate actions, sharing online, “I’m so proud of my son! He saw a kid balled up into a corner crying, so he went to console him, grabbed his hand and walked him inside of the school! It is an honor to raise such a loving, compassionate child! He’s a kid with a big heart, and the first day of school started off right!”
April now feels excited and relieved that her son has found a kind friend at school. “Knowing Conner has Christian now makes me feel so much better. It alleviates some of the anxiety. Christian is Conner’s first real friend. I’m so excited we have someone to invite for a birthday party,” she shared.