In this issue we explore the facts about autism and the real-life story of Julian Miozzi, a 20 year-old young man, who along with his mother Nina Lucia, share his story about growing up autistic.

Autism is a neuro-developmental disorder, affecting individuals in varying degrees, hence Autism Spectrum Disorder, as it is currently referred to. It affects three primary areas of development; social interaction, language, and play. Autism is the leading childhood disorder in North America; the ratio being predominantly boys being diagnosed at a rate of 4;1. For every four boys diagnosed, one girl is diagnosed.

Services for youth special needs are lacking in Laval and it only gets worse when these young men and women turn 21. Autistic adults have no government assisted educational or support programs. For parents, dealing with difficulty accessing services for their children, is stressful, frustrating, and discouraging.

We are also featuring a great resource from the Adult Education Center of the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School; Our very own Social Integration Services Program for young adults with special needs. Learn more about this innovative program in the Adult Education & Vocational Training page.

Chroma Musika, Panarmonia Atelier Musical, with the support of Laval Famillies Magazine announce the auditions for a unique project of a children's book/CD; The retelling of the legend of King Midas. This children's picture book/CD will involve more than 300 children.

-Music directors Dimitris Ilias & Maria Diamantis
-Governor General Award winning author and lyricist Glen Huser
-Composer Giannis Georgantelis
-Three times Governor General award winning illustrator Philippe Béha
- Narrated by the legendary Terry Jones of Monty Python fame
-The Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board
-Orchestre Symphonique Pop de Montréal

We’re also pleased to introduce the first annual photo contest from Laval Families Magazine and TGV Photo. Are you an amateur photographer or just like to click away at nature, wildlife, architecture, city landscapes? Just join OUR WORLD IN FOCUS and let the fun begin!

The Laval Families Magazine Team wishes all our readers a happy and safe summer! Enjoy your summer vacation with family and friends. We will be working on the next issues, including a slew of surprises for the back-to-school issue. If you wish to write for Laval Families Magazine and join the Circle of Writers, please e-mail us.

Happy Summer!
Luigi Morabito