About Lee Steel

I am the parent of a wonderful fifteen year old son who has Autism. I am the Parent Liaison at the Autism Research Unit, The Hospital for Sick Children. In this role, I support parents whose children have been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have over four years experience working in the St. James Town Community supporting families whose children have special needs. I understand the many challenges that parents often face trying to find suitable support for their special children within the community and school settings. Parenting a child with special needs is an opportunity for growth not just for our children but for ourselves.

Supporting Families with Special Needs in Our Community

Families with children who have special needs require additional support within their community and schools. There is so much we can do for our children with special needs but sometimes it is difficult to navigate the many resources available. Sometimes we need to talk with other parents who have been through similar challenges and learn what they have found helpful. As parents we need to "speak for our child until he/she can speak for themselves". This does not mean our children cannot speak, it means that we must advocate and speak out for the services and settings that foster our children's social, emotional and physical wellbeing.