Photographic memory?

[Patti888]

Hi, my son is 24 months. He's been reading phonetically for a month or two and can work out 2-4 letter words if they follow basic phonetic rules.
The bit that surprises me is his ability to remember any word I write out for him, even if we don't come across it again for a few weeks.
He currently remembers about 200 words. Favorite game is finding words stuck to our eight patio doors. He always gets it right.
My question is is it possible he has an exceptionally good visual memory or has he got a photographic memory? I've tried google but very little info out there especially with one so young.
He's been obsessed with number/letters since 18 months.
I was wondering if he had hyperlexia but he understands what he reads & he has no other autistic red flags.
As a side note, ask him where he left his socks and shoes 2 mins ago, he's clueless.
Anyone with experience of this or have any information?

Being able to read early isn't a sign of autism/aspergers. Some children pick things up a lot quicker then others. My son was 12 months when he learned the letters of the alphabet, and three when he learned how to read. He went from one word to reading a Mr Men book in ten minutes. It just clicks for some children. My son also has no idea where his shoes/socks/uniform/books/pen etc are, despite having them in his hand moments before. He's incredibly clumsy though and is being assessed for dyspraxia. If your son is meeting all of his milestones then please don't worry.

My dd2 was like that with words at that age. She definitely doesn't have a photographic memory.

Dd1 was not like that with words and does have a strong photographic memory.

Dh wouldn't have any idea where his shoes and socks are if they're not on his feet.

You have described my DS, he is now nearly 12. His memory is eidetic and not just photographic. We went shopping and I said I would calculate how much we had spent and started looking at receipts. He then recalled all of the shops we went in every item we bought and what it cost. So not just visual.

I do think he is on the autistic spectrum, though I have never tried for a diagnosis. It has not caused us any problems.

Thanks ladies, it's really interesting hearing that we are not alone & the various subtle differences.
Since last posting DS has learnt to spell. He can work out words verbally spelt and if asked to spell a word ie 'clock' he can do that also.
I've absolutley no idea what to do with this ability of his as he's no really into reading books that are age appropriate.
Any suggestions welcome please