[Ella](MP44KCPL) was three years old. She had blonde, curly hair and sparkling brown eyes. [Ella](MP44KCPL) loved her stuffed animal bunny named [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY), and she liked to carry it everywhere she went.

[Ella](MP44KCPL) was unique in her own way because she had autism. Sometimes, she heard sounds louder than other people or felt scratchy tags on clothes that others didn't notice.

Today was a special day. [Ella](MP44KCPL)’s mommy said they were going to the park! [Ella](MP44KCPL) felt nervous but also excited. She packed [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY) in her bag.

When they got to the park, [Ella](MP44KCPL) saw kids playing on the swings and slides. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to join them yet, so she stayed close to her mommy.

While [Ella](MP44KCPL) watched, a little boy named [Leo](XKYG3HCB) with freckles and glasses came over. He said, 'Hi! Do you want to build a sandcastle with me?'

[Ella](MP44KCPL) looked at her mommy. Her mommy smiled and said, "You can try, [Ella](MP44KCPL). [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY) can help, too!"

[Ella](MP44KCPL) knelt down slowly and started patting the sand with her hands. Together, she and [Leo](XKYG3HCB) built a tall sandcastle with a moat and a flag!

As they played, [Leo](XKYG3HCB) said, 'I like your bunny!' [Ella](MP44KCPL) giggled and showed [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY) to [Leo](XKYG3HCB). It felt nice to share.

[Ella](MP44KCPL) walked home with her mommy, feeling proud. "I made a friend today!" she told [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY). [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY) looked like he was smiling, too.

That night, as [Ella](MP44KCPL) cuddled with [Bun-Bun](TXJZFFWY) in bed, she thought about her day. "I was brave," she whispered. And she dreamed of new adventures that waited tomorrow.