My amazing son Jaiden was diagnosed with Autism in 2014, when he was a little over two years old and is a life-loving, kindness spreading, creative, self-advocating superhero on a mission to show the world that there are no limits to what you can do when you believe in yourself and that Autism isn’t a bad thing. He will always find a way to share kindness, love, and positivity wherever he is, all while being the best son, friend, and person he can be. 

Running Jai At Play together has greatly boosted Jaiden’s self-esteem and sense of belonging. It has helped empower him to become a proud Autism advocate, educating others and challenging negative stereotypes. When he encounters kids who don’t understand Autism or who struggle with their own diagnosis, he feels even prouder and less isolated because he knows I accept and support him and that we are on this journey together. Although there are still people who talk negatively about Autism, Jaiden knows that it’s wrong and uses our work to show that Autism is something to embrace and celebrate, not hide or feel ashamed of. His excitement and pride in talking about Jai At Play are a constant source of motivation, and this journey fills him with joy and a deep sense of purpose.

His journey is a reminder that being different doesn’t make you any less deserving of love, respect, acceptance, and celebration. The goal isn’t for our kids to be a good version of someone else, but to be the best version of themselves. Jaiden’s experiences serve as inspiration for people of all ages, and he uses his voice to speak up not just for himself but for so many other neurodivergent children and their families.

We truly appreciate the support and love we receive, and Jaiden personally wants to thank you all. In his own words, “You’re my friend now!”

 Meet Shekira 

I am a proud Autism Mom and passionate advocate, visual artist and social activist, and the founder and CEO of Jai At Play. My story, experiences, and love for utilizing art and creativity to promote positive Autism awareness and acceptance have garnered attention in major publications and media, including ATTN (with a video reaching over 1M views), NowThis News, and People.

When Jaiden was diagnosed with Autism, his pediatrician and therapists told me a long list of things they said he’d never do including talk, make friends, show affection, or get a "normal" job. But I refused to let them have a final say over his life and I committed myself to protecting, supporting, and advocating for him and other kids like him, while working to change how the world views, understands, and interacts with Autism. When they said he might never hold a “normal” job because of his Autism diagnosis, I was determined to create something that would let him share his strengths and ideas with the world. That’s why our business carries his name and why his face is featured in our logo. Today, Jaiden has surpassed all of their early expectations, showing just how powerful love, support, and encouragement can be.

Navigating first-time motherhood alongside learning what Autism meant for us and our journey, as well as my own late-diagnosed Autism as an adult, has given me a unique and special perspective. My personal experiences and insights allow me to approach this work with genuine understanding, empathy, and awareness while also being an authentic representative and advocate for others in the Autism Community.

 How We're Different 

A New Perspective: Jai At Play is more than a business, it’s a mission and a catalyst for positive change. In a society where Autism is often linked with misfortune and pity, we stand apart from major Autism-centered companies by focusing on a different narrative with a creative and holistic approach. Unlike organizations that focus on the medical side of Autism or trying to "cure" or "fix" it, we believe it's not Autism that needs changing, it’s people’s perceptions.

Champions of Representation: We’re not just making products—we’re creating opportunities for black autistic youth and their families to be part of the story, the industry, and the conversation, helping to shift perceptions and foster a more inclusive world so that they too can feel seen, heard, and supported. Early on in our Autism journey, I noticed the lack of characters in media that positively represented Autism and could serve as role models for my son. This absence inspired me to create products that intentionally include black autistic children and their families, addressing the need for diverse representation. Because I know when kids see themselves in the stories, characters, and tools they use, they feel a sense of belonging and the confidence to embrace their identities.

We're here to remind everyone that Autism is not a tragedy, but a meaningful and beautiful part of who someone is!