Ellerbee said, "Autism is not a mental illness. It's not contagious, and it's not a choice; and while kids with autism have been described as living in their own private worlds. They are also living in our world. Therein lies the challenge for all of us: How do we live differently together?"

Private Worlds: Kids and Autism begins with the story of Andrew, a severely autistic fifth grader. It's difficult to understand what life is like for Andrew because he can't communicate his feelings. His family can't go places or do things with out considering his needs, or without worrying he might do something inappropriate in public.

Though Andrew will never get entirely better, the family is doing what it can to make his life as full as possible. The special also introduces viewers to Bond, a 15-year-old with
Aspergers Syndrome, generally considered a more high functioning form of autism. He's smart and articulate, but still has problems socialising.

Temple Grandin tells her amazing story through her books about being autistic, and implores kids not to tease their autistic classmates. Matt is 14 and has Savant Syndrome, which means that he possesses an extraordinary gift, in his case, the ability to play the piano. Savant syndrome is rare, but it happens. A final segment highlights how other kids can be a part of the lives and worlds of kids with autism.