A fish out of water comes to mind when Dantae’s mom reflects on her son’s favorite activities. He loves water, anytime, anyplace. When he is not enjoying swimming, splashing, or watching water, Dantae enjoys playing with things with wheels, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, Baby Shark, PJ Masks Power Heroes, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

 A diagnosis of autism has not prevented Dantae from letting his personality shine. He gives joy to others by bringing laughter to their lives. He can make jokes about anything. Even when he laughs to himself, it is contagious to those around him. He continues to work on his communication skills and expressing himself in conversation. He is also learning to be more present, and to do more things independently, which makes his family proud.

Dantae continues to make progress in his relationships in many ways. When he gets home from school, he cannot wait to find out what his brothers are doing. He often offers to share his strawberries and his favorite books with his little brother. 

When looking to the future, Dantae’s mom hopes he will continue to be more open and will receive understanding from others. “Our family hopes Dantae will find happiness in his own way, not in the way the world wants him to be happy. He has taught us to appreciate the little things because he expresses such joy in small details.”