“What made you open a studio?”

Our daughter Aaliyah was born with cerebral palsy. Because of this, she couldn’t do what other children can do. One day her school called to ask if she could play with clay to see how she would react. Two weeks later, after her piece was fired, the staff painted her hand, and she loved it.

We took Aaliyah to a paint-your-own-pottery studio to see for ourselves. When I painted her hand, it tickled her so much, and she laughed so hard it made me cry. About two years later, on vacation in Wisconsin Dells, we tried it again. She started laughing again.

We hope our story and Just Kiln’ Time can be an inspiration for other families, especially those with special needs. Our goal is to give your family a safe, great place to escape, relax and explore your creativity.

Sadly, our family lost Aaliyah on December 10, 2021. She passed away in her sleep. She will be deeply missed by many.