In their own time and space
In the Māori language, the word for autism is ‘Takiwātanga’. Its direct translation is in his/her/their own time and space. Not lacking, not disabled - experiencing the world in their own way.
Producer/Director
[in production]
In their own time and space is a glimpse into the life of ex pro surfer Izzy Paskowitz and his autistic son, Isaiah and how the water has woven their connection.
This is the story of a father and son finding their own time and space—not only for themselves, but for each other. It’s also about acceptance, connection, the healing power of nature, and love that transcends language.
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My goal for this documentary is to educate and inform – on the reality of raising and living with an autistic child, how different doesn’t mean disabled, the importance and benefits of connecting to nature, and how love, above all, has the power to change us.
Izzy and his wife Danielle started Surfer’s Healing in 1996 with one goal: to give autistic children and their families’ one perfect day. My hope is this project will also raise awareness of the work they are doing with Surfer’s Healing and support its growth and reach.
When Isaiah was born in 1991, it’s estimated that 1 in 500 children in the US were diagnosed with autism. According to the CDC’s 2025 report, that number has risen to 1 in 31 children. At this point, we all know someone that is on the spectrum and yet there's still so much we don't know. Sharing stories that deepen our understanding—even just a little—can inspire greater compassion and empathy in our communities.