Watch Kids' Reviews of
ONE THING AT A TIME

I love One Thing At a Time because it talks about an important topic and because the film has an encouraging message.

This documentary, made by a high school student, talks about a program helping neurodivergent individuals. Debra Orenstein and Dr. Matthew Strobel introduce us to the world they work in and how their program operates. They remind us how important it is to encourage their clients to try and how it is for others to show awareness and empathy.

The film begins with Debra Orenstein and Dr. Matthew discussing the program at Plainsboro Recreation Center for the facility for the Expressive Arts for neurodivergent individuals and the variety of students who participate, from those who are autistic, or ADHD or OCD, or are non-verbal - and the challenges involved. This goes way beyond watching talking heads. We see clips of what goes on in the program. We meet three students, Joe, Felipe and Zaheen, and learn how the program has helped them grow as a person. We also meet Zaheen's sister who tells us It's encouraging seeing how people benefit from participating in this program. One important quote that stayed with me is, "I don't think one has to be a very trained person to have that sense of empathy and awareness." The camera work includes some wonderful close ups of the activities that are part of the program. I love the scene where everyone is moving because everyone seems so happy. The film's Director and Producer, Yashvi Bharariya's work really stands out because she addresses a topic that isn't easily talked about and portrays it in a way that is engaging for the audience. My favorite part is the quote that I shared above because it really encouraged me to help in any way and reminded me that, as long as we really try, we can help make our community a stronger community. This film invites us to slow down, pay attention, and see one another, one interaction at a time.

The film's message is that we can all share empathy with each other and that, with empathy comes awareness. That awareness reminds us that we can do anything as long as we try.

I give One Thing at a Time 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. By Zamyra G. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

I love One Thing At a Time because it talks about an important topic and because the film has an encouraging message.

This documentary, made by a high school student, talks about a program helping neurodivergent individuals. Debra Orenstein and Dr. Matthew Strobel introduce us to the world they work in and how their program operates. They remind us how important it is to encourage their clients to try and how it is for others to show awareness and empathy.

The film begins with Debra Orenstein and Dr. Matthew discussing the program at Plainsboro Recreation Center for the facility for the Expressive Arts for neurodivergent individuals and the variety of students who participate, from those who are autistic, or ADHD or OCD, or are non-verbal - and the challenges involved. This goes way beyond watching talking heads. We see clips of what goes on in the program. We meet three students, Joe, Felipe and Zaheen, and learn how the program has helped them grow as a person. We also meet Zaheen's sister who tells us It's encouraging seeing how people benefit from participating in this program. One important quote that stayed with me is, "I don't think one has to be a very trained person to have that sense of empathy and awareness." The camera work includes some wonderful close ups of the activities that are part of the program. I love the scene where everyone is moving because everyone seems so happy. The film's Director and Producer, Yashvi Bharariya's work really stands out because she addresses a topic that isn't easily talked about and portrays it in a way that is engaging for the audience. My favorite part is the quote that I shared above because it really encouraged me to help in any way and reminded me that, as long as we really try, we can help make our community a stronger community. This film invites us to slow down, pay attention, and see one another, one interaction at a time.

The film's message is that we can all share empathy with each other and that, with empathy comes awareness. That awareness reminds us that we can do anything as long as we try.

I give One Thing at a Time 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. By Zamyra G. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

Set within spaces designed to support neurodivergent individuals, the film gently shifts focus to the people and everyday moments of connection that give these places meaning. Through Felipe, Zaheen, and Coach Debra, we see how patience, attention, and genuine care often teach far more than formal training ever could. Interwoven with reflections from psychologist Dr. Strobel and glimpses into family life, the documentary includes interviews and program settings that capture the quiet, authentic gestures that shape real understanding.