12 year old and his soap business

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A West Auckland autistic boy has chosen to make a fresh start by making his way around markets with the launch of his soap business.

Jaydn Holz of Rānui has struggled with health issues since he was born.

At five years old, he was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).

Earlier this year, he was diagnosed with high-functioning autism (HFA).

The exuberant 12-year-old was ostracised by his own family, bullied by fellow peers and deplored by school teachers.

Despite the many hurdles, Jaydn has found success in selling soap at various Auckland markets.

In January, Jaydn's aunty and soap maker Lisa asked Jaydn if he would be interested in learning how to make soap as her own son decided it was not for him anymore.

Jaydn was thrilled about the idea of making money and quickly leaped at the opportunity.

Mum and former preschool teacher Stephanie Holz believed the small business would give her son a way to utilise his social skills.

Thus began Jaydn's kiosk – Soap4Kids.

Through his small business, the 12-year-old has been able to introduce himself to unfamiliar people and improve his conversational skills.

"The Ormiston market is a market for kids. I feel comfortable selling my soaps there. It's a nice and relaxed market that supports kids," he said.

As a result of the market, his mother said Jaydn had learned to grasp the understanding that other people want to talk too, not just listen to Jaydn talk about his interests.