Lisa Quinones-Fontanez is a secretary by day, blog writer by night and mom round the clock. Her son, Norrin, was diagnosed with autism in 2008 and Lisa founded the award winning blog AutismWonderland to chronicle her family journey with autism.
In 2014, Lisa launched Atypical Familia – a personal family blog and she has been recognized for her writing and her efforts to raise autism awareness within the Latino community.
This is a special episode celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in the autism community.
Listen to the Episode below
(00:17:43)
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How Lisa Got Started:
When her son was first diagnosed, Lisa remembered going to bookstores and looking at memoirs written by autism moms but she couldn’t find a book that reflected her reality.
She couldn’t quit her job to stay home with her son.
She couldn’t afford to move to another state or neighborhood.
What started as a grad school creative writing project – led to the successful AutismWonderland blog for this working autism mom.
She doesn’t find herself different from other autism moms.
She just happens to write about her life online.
Lessons Learned:
Did you know?
Latinos are less likely to get diagnosed by 2 years old. Sometimes parents just don’t know what signs to look out for.
Lisa doesn’t want these kids to miss an opportunity window for services before they enter into the school system.
Autism Resource:
- Easter Seals : Wondering if your child has autism? Find a free developmental milestones and screening questionnaire in both English and Spanish.
- Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew
: a book that every autism parent should read by Ellen Notbohm
Interview Links:
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Atypical Familia:
Atypical Familia, is a personal blog and family lifestyle site for autism/special needs families with a focus on work/life balance, family entertainment, travel and product reviews. -
AutismWonderland:
A personal blog chronicling Lisa’s family journey with autism in New York City – specifically The Bronx. Posts from 2010 to 2014.