My son is almost 5 and I am a little concerened with his emotional development. He is an extremely sensitive child and very empathetic. If someone takes something of his he bursts into tears instead of trying to get it back. He very rarely stands up for himself and takes everything literally. He worries alot about everything,eg. How his friend was going to get mail when he moved to another state (he was 2 at the time).

He is very bright and has a huge hunger for knowledge. Loves maths, computers and finding out about new things. He has an exceptional memory for all things and amazes people all the time with his language and memory skills. He would do anything for someone if they said he could be their friend but takes a while to warm to people (after 3 terms he still gets upset when I drop him at preschool however loves his other daycare which he has attended for 2 days a week since 5months old). He gets frightened very easily by stories people make up and certain noises (often covers his ears when certain characters come on tv).

He has had a few breath holding episodes but none in the last 12 months and has been on 3 orientation days at kindergarten and decided he doesn't like it. I had to drag him up the entrance and they pulled him from my arms. He said he had an alright time but doesn't like it and doesn't want to go back ever. When I picked him up he was holding the teachers hand while the other kids played. The next time he was sitting up the front with the teacher while the other kids were all on the floor.

We have Asperger's and autism in our family and I am wondering if these are tendencies I should be concerend about? Also I am concerened about him starting kinder next year. Does he sound like he's ready? I am concerened he is not emotionally mature enough to look after himself at school yet. Others opinions would be greatly appreciated.