Dauda Sesay smiles while surrounded by Legos

 Shutterstock.com (LEGO bricks, puzzle piece); Courtesy of family (Dauda Sesay)

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"I Have Autism"

Dauda Sesay is almost 8. This creative kid lives with a condition that affects how he learns and communicates.

April 25, 2022
By Dauda Sesay, age 7

Courtesy of family

Dauda loves playing with LEGO bricks.

When I was younger, my mom noticed that I wasn’t talking or playing like other kids my age. My doctor examined me and told me that I have autism. The way I learn and think is different from the way other people learn and think. 

No one knows for sure what causes autism. It’s different for everyone.

For me, it means I need to follow the same routine, or way of doing things, to stay calm. For example, I watch the same videos and eat the same kinds of food every day.

I also tend to focus on one activity for weeks at a time. Right now, it’s building LEGO® sets. When I’m interested in something, I give it my full attention. I can get really creative and make amazing things!

Keeping My Cool

I sometimes have a tough time telling people how I feel.

When I am upset, I sometimes throw stuff instead of talking. My mom helps me by telling me to take a deep breath and to count to three.

Other things calm me down too. I hug my mom and dad. Playing on a swingset or jumping on a trampoline can also help. 

You see, there are plenty of ways to help me stay calm. Other kids—and even grown-ups—can try these ideas when they’re feeling upset too!

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