Lori DeMonia — a Chester County mom who recently won a literary award from the Autism Society of America for her picture book Leah’s Voice (click here to win a copy) — is mom to Leah (13), who has autism, and Sarah (10), who does not. Here, she shares insights into the autism-friendly lifestyle she leads with her husband and daughters.
How they spend family time: “One of our favorite outings is going roller-skating together.”
Her area’s best-kept kid secret: “In Oxford, Neuchatel Swiss Chocolates. The shop has an old-fashioned, European feel, and its owner, Albert, trained to be a chocolatier in Switzerland. It’s such a unique place to take the kids for a treat.”
Family plans for Autism Awareness month: “Sarah and I have nominated her school to participate in the Autism Society’s ribbon campaign. We are going to make awareness ribbons for all the staff and students to wear on April 2 for World Autism Awareness Day.”
Their favored area autism support resource: “Variety — The Children’s Charity sponsors accommodating, sensory-friendly days just for families with autistic children. They have given our family the opportunity to enjoy museums and amusement parks that we normally couldn’t attend.”
Favorite local kid venue: “The Please Touch Museum is one of our favorites. It’s hosting an Autism Awareness Night [through Variety] on April 18 for the sixth time. It’s great for families like ours.”
