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A Home Aquarium Brings Increased Calm and Focus to One Denver Teen

July 20, 2025

Looking for ways to support Denali’s sensory needs at home, his family turned to the Denver Mill Levy Program and discovered that his love of bubbles and water could be the key to helping him feel more regulated and engaged. 

Denali is a 15-year-old with autism who experiences the world in a unique way and sometimes struggles to maintain focus and calm. Recently, the Denver Mill Levy Program supported his family in purchasing a small aquarium, an idea sparked by a simple observation during hospital visits. 

Every time Denali visited the hospital, he found himself captivated by a large bubble wall in the entryway. He would stop and stare, asking “Please Ma, can I get that in our house?” That’s when his family realized that an aquarium might offer similar sensory benefits at home. 

With support from the Denver Mill Levy Program, his family purchased an aquarium filled with brightly colored plants and several types of fish. The results were immediate. Denali became more focused, calm, and engaged. He spends hours watching the fish and admiring the bubbles and plants. He even talks to the fish, each affectionately named “Fishy Fishy.”

When friends and family come over to the house, Denali is always excited to show off his aquarium. According to his mom, “This was the one of the best things Mill Levy could have done for him. It has made a big impact in his life for his autism and his memory.” A close-up of a glowing aquarium filled with brightly colored artificial plants and pebbles. The tank sits on a white stand with open shelving. The lower shelf is lit green and decorated with faux plants and glittery silver containers. A few cables are visible in the background. Sensory tiles in shades of red and green lie on the floor in front.

About the Denver Mill Levy Program

The Denver Mill Levy Program supports individuals with I/DD and their families who reside in the City and County of Denver by offering access to resources, services, and supports tailored to their unique needs.

Examples include: 

  • Respite care to give parents and caregivers time to recharge 
  • Training, therapy, and support for caregivers, siblings, and family members 
  • Developmental books and toys to encourage learning and growth 
  • Adaptive equipment and other specialized tools 
  • Essential items like food, clothing, and diapers 
  • Recreational and creative activities that enhance quality of life 
  • Opportunities for community engagement through camps, clubs, and day programs 

Explore how the Denver Mill Levy Program can offer flexible, individualized support for Denver families.