Filmed as part of Well Child Lens, a video project which extensively documented autism spectrum disorder in young children, “Opening His Eyes to the World: A Story of a Boy and Autism” follows a young child, Wells, as he is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and receives therapy. The four-part documentary features a combination of parent-recorded home video and video captured by GeneticaLens camera crews.

In the documentary, Wells’ parents comment on the first year of Wells’ life, in which he appeared more verbal and connected than he would in the years following. They then discuss his early symptoms, and the difficulties they had expressing their concerns to others despite their early recognition that something was not quite right with his development. Following Wells’ diagnosis, the documentary details how Wells’ parents and a team of therapists designed his treatment program through a collaborative discussion of his strengths and challenges. Footage of Wells’ therapy sessions illustrates this discussion, demonstrating how Wells’ therapy is tailored to address these challenges. Particularly, the team discusses how to promote his speech, increase his motivation to participate in therapy, and reduce his hand flapping.

By the end of the documentary, it’s easy to see Well's incredible progress with the help of early intervention. Though Well's still struggles to articulate some sounds, he regularly converses with adults and his peers. He shares his thoughts and feelings, asks questions, shows, initiates and maintains conversations with others. His father discusses how Well's social interest and play skills are also developing, attesting to the crucial role of early intervention in helping a child with ASD understand and enjoy social interaction. His parents describe their concerns, but also their hope for the future.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4