Join Lens of Youth in turning misunderstood behaviors into meaningful understanding.
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Join Lens of Youth in turning misunderstood behaviors into meaningful understanding.
Sign up to contribute Donate NowOne cozy afternoon, a group of moms were having tea in the dining room. One of them had an infant sleeping on the couch in the living room. The atmosphere was quiet until the host’s six year old son got home from school. He quietly walked into the living room while all the moms were busy chatting. All of a sudden the quietness was broken by the baby’s crying! All the moms rushed into the living room and found out the boy had pushed the baby to wake it up. The baby’s mom scooped up her child and hastily left, as did the rest of the moms.
Your interpretation:
The truth: His mom told him that it is not polite to watch TV when someone is sleeping. He wanted to watch his favorite cartoon, but the sleeping baby was there. To solve his problem, he woke up the baby. He was not mean, his brain was just born to think this way. He has limited ability to consider other people’s feelings. This is caused by his diagnosis, Autism.
“Every behavior tells a story. We just need to listen differently.”
Misunderstood Moments is a storytelling and art-based initiative by Lens of Youth that amplifies real-life experiences of individuals with developmental disabilities. We gather real-life stories from families of children with developmental disabilities, interpret them with care and creativity, and bring them to life through writing, visual art, film, and more.
These stories are then exhibited at schools, libraries, and public spaces to spark empathy and understanding in communities.
To raise awareness, inspire empathy, and challenge public misconceptions by showcasing authentic stories—paired with powerful illustrations—to promote understanding, inclusion, and compassion in our communities.
A world where individuals with developmental disabilities are seen, heard, and understood without judgment—where their unique experiences are embraced with dignity, and where society responds with empathy, respect, and meaningful support
“When people saw my daughter’s story told through a painting, they cried. For the first time, they saw her.” — Parent, 2024
We are looking for families, artists, and advocates to help us create a world where every misunderstood moment is an opportunity for connection. Click on the cards below to sign up for one or more of the following roles:
Families who want to share misunderstood moments.
Illustrators, filmmakers, or performers who want to interpret a story.
Writers and editors who help storpytellers create narratives of Misunderstood Moments.
People who want to help advocate Misunderstood Moments.
Organizations and businesses who want to support our mission.
Thank you for supporting MisunderstodMoments - your generosity helps us share untold stories, spark empathy, and inspire change.
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