A story of how God creates differences. An unique explanation of autism to children who don't understand. 

When God Created Autism

Etta sitting at her school desk, looking curiously at a new boy in class

Etta went to school one day,
Where she liked to learn and play.
She noticed someone new in class,
A boy who seemed quite different, alas.

A New Friend

A boy in class rocking in his chair, covering his ears, surrounded by posters of stars and planets

He rocked back and forth in his chair,
And covered his ears when sounds filled the air.
He spoke few words but knew many facts,
About stars and planets and dinosaur tracks.

Something Different

Etta sitting at a kitchen table with Mom, both looking thoughtful

"Why does he act that way?" Etta asked,
When she and Mom in kitchen basked.
"Why doesn't he look in people's eyes?
Why does he make those humming cries?"

Etta's Question

Mom smiling warmly, sitting next to Etta in the kitchen

Mom smiled and sat down by her side,
"When God makes people, He takes great pride.
Some brains He wires in special ways,
To see the world through a different gaze."

God's Special Design

Mom explaining with a gentle expression, Etta listening intently

"It's called autism, this special design,
A different way of thinking that's fine.
God crafts each mind with loving care,
Some feel and hear more than others are aware."

Explaining Autism

A boy covering his ears, lights and sounds depicted as overwhelming around him

"Lights might seem brighter, sounds might seem loud,
Touches might feel like too much to be allowed.
God gave him senses that work overtime,
That's why he covers his ears sometimes."

Sensory Differences

A boy passionately showing a book about stars, Etta looking intrigued

"And all those facts that he loves to share,
Show what his heart finds special and rare.
God gave him passion for things he loves,
Like stars that twinkle in skies above."

Special Interests

Etta talking with Mom, Mom gesturing with her hands to explain

"Some people talk with words like you,
While others find that harder to do.
God gives each person their own voice,
Some speak with actions instead by choice."

Different Communication

A colorful rainbow in the sky, symbolizing diversity and uniqueness

"God loves variety, colors, and shapes,
Different minds are what He creates.
Like rainbows with colors that shine so bright,
Each person brings their own special light."

God's Rainbow

Etta sitting next to the boy in class, smiling and looking at a book about stars

The next day Etta knew what to do,
She'd make a friend of someone new.
She sat beside him with a smile so kind,
And asked about the stars he had in mind.

Making Friends

Etta and the boy sharing books and art, both smiling, a bond forming

He showed her books of galaxies vast,
She shared her art, a friendship grew fast.
Though different ways they had to be,
Their hearts connected naturally.

Learning Together

Etta under a starry sky, feeling a sense of wonder and understanding

Etta learned that God above,
Creates all people with special love.
Differences aren't mistakes or flaws,
But gifts from God's perfect, loving laws.