Linda Mastroianni is founder, writer, editor and blogger of Speaking Autism. She is a certified life coach providing consulting services on many issues such as special education, life skills, transition into the workplace, aging out of the school system, employment programs and much more. She is also a contributor for Huffington Post Canada and has had her worked published in various on line magazines. She has been featured in “Inspirations Newspaper: A Special Needs Family Resource” and “Autism Parenting” Magazine. Linda is also available as a speaker. More Info
Making a difference in the community for people with disabilities
Here is how Speaking Autism is making a difference:
I have over 16 years’ experience in developing well-structured plans for children from pre-school to college. I know first had the challenges having a child with special needs can bring; from securing sufficient support in school to developing and fostering independence. Some of what I do:
I have over 16 years’ experience in developing well-structured plans for children from pre-school to college. I know first had the challenges having a child with special needs can bring; from securing sufficient support in school to developing and fostering independence. Some of what I do:
- Establishing the best action plan for your child based on their strengths and abilities, whether they are in pre-school or college.
- Finding the right school for your child.
- Strategies on how to build a successful Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child as well as attending IEP meetings to ensure proper resources are secured.
- Navigating the special education system and knowing your rights.
- Transition into college – assisting in establishing on-site resources and aide for the student to ensure their academic success.
- Providing tools to support and assist with major transitions such as a new school, change in family dynamics, divorce and blended family.
- Review of all documents and core planning for the next academic school year.
- Strategies on developing life skills, being organized and fostering independence.
- Zero in on their skills and strengths because this will translate to a more success employment.
- How to create a positive job resume.
- Using available resources to find job opportunities.
- Practicing job interviews.
- The benefits of internship & volunteering as a starting point.
Inspiration behind Speaking Autism The inspiration behind all of this are my children. I have two boys who are both on the autism spectrum. I have tailored my life so as to assist them in theirs. I saw a need for such support in my community as well as online so I created Speaking Autism to do just that – provide support and resources to people living with autism.
Who can benefit from Speaking Autism People with autism, parents, educators and anyone working with someone with autism can benefit from my organization.
Our message What if, by the sole purpose of allowing people to be who they are, without judgement for their differences, a new paradigm is created and with that, the knowledge that something greater is lying beneath? Imagine the possibilities.
