Otto took to the skies—literally—on his first discovery flight in a vintage 1949 Stinson. Otto’s enthusiasm lit up the sky, as Barry Prizant reminds us in Uniquely Human, these passions aren’t quirks—they’re lifelines—and for this little boy flight isn’t just an enthusiasm—it’s belonging.

When my son Otto slips into the water, he becomes an octopus—fearless, curious, and completely himself. Today, in a pool far bigger than our own, he found courage, friendship, and a sense of belonging that made him weightless in every way that matters.

What began with a 3:30 a.m. rocket launch turned into a day of quiet firsts and unexpected magic. From patient instructions to shadow goodbyes, from skydiving airplane mechanics to surprise playdates with puppy love —my neurodivergent son let the world in, one small moment at a time. And just when I thought the day had given us everything—it ended with an orange soda kiss that reminded me why I keep going.

Moments like this allow children to study the world with the depth and intensity they crave. And they provide children with a sense of belonging. It was another reminder that when kids are trusted to lead, they’ll take flight. Sometimes literally.

A gentle reminder that connection doesn’t always come from fixing or forcing. Sometimes, it comes from noticing. Slowing. Trusting that the world will offer just what your child needs, if you stay curious enough to look for it.

WILD by Design is an outdoor child development program rooted in strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming environments. It’s a space where all children—regardless of ability—can thrive through sensory-rich play. But it’s not just for kids. It’s also for the parents. Because in this model, we provide access to real professionals: OTs, SLPs, counselors—people who walk alongside families, offering real tools, strategies, and encouragement.