ginaW~
that is exactly what I was going to add! a simple "thank you"
This was an interesting thread to read... learning how to navigate social situations is what we are always working on.
but a stranger is a stranger is a stranger--- no matter WHAT they are asking/commenting on, and as a result DS6 has been taught to IGNORE strangers and to not respond. ie On a playground, he would just not acknowledge and it would appear probably to the person DS didn't hear...
However, in simple matter of a waitress serving us food etc,(yes, a stranger- but he is with us etc)~ he typically acknowledges with a sweet smile and/or thank you. done.