How To Parent An Autistic Child.

March 1, 2023March 1, 2023Leave a comment

Parenting is never an easy job, but when it comes to parenting a child with autism, it can be even more challenging. Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopment disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is estimated that around 1 in 54 children in the United States has ASD, and the number is growing.

Parenting a child with autism can be a roller coaster of emotions, from joy and love to frustration and exhaustion. There are many different challenges that parents of children with autism may face, and no two families’ experiences are the same. Here are some of the common difficulties that parents of autistic children may encounter:

Communication: Children with autism may have difficulty communicating their needs, wants, and feelings. They may not use words to express themselves or may have trouble understanding the nuances of language. This can make it hard for parents to know what their child needs or wants, leading to frustration and stress.
Social Interaction: Children with autism may struggle with social interaction, such as making eye contact, initiating conversations, or reading social cues. This can make it hard for them to make friends or build relationships with peers, which can be isolating and lonely for both the child and their parents.
Sensory Issues: Children with autism may have sensory issues, such as being hypersensitive to sounds, textures, or lights, or not feeling pain or temperature changes. These issues can make everyday experiences like going to the grocery store or getting dressed, overwhelming and stressful.
Behavior: Children with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors or have difficulty with transitions or changes in routine. They may also have meltdowns or tantrums when they are overwhelmed or unable to communicate their needs effectively. These behaviors can be difficult for parents to manage, leading to feelings of exhaustion, frustration, and guilt.

Parenting a child with autism requires patience, understanding, and a lot of hard work. It can also be emotionally and physically draining, as parents may need to advocate for their child’s needs, navigate complex healthcare and educational systems, and manage their own stress and anxiety.

Fortunately, there are resources and support available for parents of children with autism. Early intervention programs, such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, can help children develop communication and social skills. Support groups and parent training programs can provide a sense of community and help parents develop strategies for managing challenging behaviors and coping with the stress of parenting a child with autism.

Parenting a child with autism is hard, but it is also rewarding. While there are many challenges, there are also many moments of joy, love, and connection. With the right support, resources, and strategies, parents can help their children with autism thrive and reach their full potential.

Meet Susie Liberatore

As an Art Director with over 10 years of experience in the agency and corporate world, I saw global and local clients missing out on so many opportunities to get leads because of inconsistent branding. My goal is to help them generate new clients with my strategic processes. I help businesses NOT waste time or money and provide the highest quality design and service. As a single mom to an autistic child, I know how valuable time and money are.

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

What Does Women In Business Mean?

March 1, 2023Leave a comment

What Does Women In Business Mean?

Throughout history, women have faced various challenges in pursuing their dreams and ambitions. However, over the years, women have broken barriers and proved that they are equally capable of achieving success in various fields, including business.

Today, women entrepreneurs are making significant strides in the business world, starting and running successful enterprises, creating jobs, and contributing to the economy.

Progress Made by Women in Business

The number of women entrepreneurs has been steadily rising over the years, and they are making significant contributions to the economy. According to the 2019 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report, the number of women-owned businesses grew by 58% over the past 11 years. The same report also showed that women-owned businesses generated $1.9 trillion in revenue and employed over 9 million people in the United States alone.

Women entrepreneurs are not only starting new businesses, but they are also taking the lead in established organizations. In 2020, women held 41 CEO positions in Fortune 500 companies, which is a record high. Women in business are also breaking the glass ceiling in male-dominated industries, such as technology and finance, and paving the way for future generations of women.

Challenges Faced by Women in Business

Despite the progress made by women in business, they continue to face various challenges. Some of the challenges include:

Gender Bias: Women entrepreneurs often face discrimination and bias, which can hinder their progress and success.
Access to Capital: Women entrepreneurs find it challenging to access funding for their businesses, as many investors are more likely to invest in male-owned businesses.
Work-Life Balance: Balancing work and family can be challenging for women entrepreneurs, especially those with young children.
Lack of Role Models: Women entrepreneurs often lack role models and mentors, making it challenging to navigate the business world.
Social Expectations: Women entrepreneurs are often expected to conform to social expectations and stereotypes, which can limit their progress and success.

How to Support Women in Business

Supporting women in business can help address the challenges they face and create an environment where women can thrive. Some ways to support women in business include:

Investing in Women-Owned Businesses: Investing in women-owned businesses can provide much-needed funding and support for women entrepreneurs.
Mentorship and Networking: Providing mentorship and networking opportunities can help women entrepreneurs navigate the business world and connect with other professionals.
Challenging Gender Bias: Challenging gender bias and discrimination can help create a more inclusive and equitable business environment.
Promoting Work-Life Balance: Promoting work-life balance and flexibility can help women entrepreneurs balance their work and family responsibilities.
Celebrating Women in Business: Celebrating the successes of women in business can help inspire and motivate future generations of women entrepreneurs.

Women have made significant progress in the business world, but they continue to face challenges such as gender bias, lack of access to funding, and social expectations. Supporting women in business can help create a more inclusive and equitable business environment, and empower women to achieve their dreams and ambitions.

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

What To Do If A School Isn’t Following Your Child’s IEP

March 1, 2023March 1, 2023Leave a comment

What To Do If A School Isn’t Following Your Child’s IEP

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are designed to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support they need to succeed in school. Unfortunately, there are times when schools fail to follow IEPs, which can be frustrating and challenging for students and their families. In this blog post, we’ll explore what you can do if your school isn’t following your IEP.

Communicate with your child’s teachers and school administration.

The first step is to communicate your concerns with your child’s teachers and the school administration. It’s possible that the school may not be aware that they are not following the IEP, and they may be willing to make the necessary changes. Be specific about the areas where the school is falling short, and provide any documentation that supports your concerns. Make sure to keep a record of all communication with the school.

Request an IEP meeting.

If the school does not make the necessary changes, you can request an IEP meeting to discuss your concerns. During the meeting, you can review the IEP and identify the areas where the school is not following it. You can also discuss potential solutions to address these issues. It’s important to remember that the IEP is a legally binding document, and the school is required to follow it.

Consider mediation or due process.

If you are unable to resolve the issue with the school, you may want to consider mediation or due process. Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps facilitate a resolution between you and the school. Due process involves filing a formal complaint with the school district and may involve a hearing before an administrative law judge. Both options can be time-consuming and costly, so it’s important to carefully consider your options before pursuing them.

Seek outside support.

You don’t have to navigate the process alone. Consider seeking the support of an advocate or an attorney who specializes in special education law. They can help you navigate the process and ensure that your child’s rights are protected. Additionally, you can seek support from local or national organizations that provide resources and support for families of students with disabilities.

It is important to take action to ensure that your child receives the support they need to succeed in school. Communicate your concerns with the school, request an IEP meeting, consider mediation or due process, and seek outside support. Remember, you are your child’s advocate, and it’s essential to protect their rights.

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

How To Track IEP Progress As A Parent

March 1, 2023March 1, 2023Leave a comment

As a parent, monitoring your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) progress is essential to ensure they are making adequate progress toward their goals. An IEP is a legal document that outlines specific educational goals and accommodations for students with disabilities, so tracking progress is crucial to ensure the student receives the necessary support to succeed. Here are some tips on how to track IEP progress as a parent:

Understand the IEP goals and objectives

Before you can track progress, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your child’s IEP goals and objectives. Make sure you have a copy of the IEP and review it regularly. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the school’s special education teacher or your child’s case manager.

Communicate regularly with the school team

The school team, including the special education teacher and case manager, should provide regular updates on your child’s progress toward their IEP goals. Set up regular communication with the school team to discuss your child’s progress, any concerns you may have, and strategies that may be working at home.

Attend IEP meetings

IEP meetings are an opportunity for you to discuss your child’s progress with the school team and adjust the IEP goals and objectives, if necessary. Attend all IEP meetings and come prepared with any questions or concerns you may have. Take notes during the meeting, and make sure to follow up on any action items after the meeting.

Keep track of your child’s work and assignments

Keep track of your child’s work and assignments to get a sense of their progress. You can review their work to see if they are meeting the IEP goals and objectives. Keeping a portfolio of your child’s work is also helpful to show progress over time.

Consider using technology

There are many tools and apps available to help track IEP progress. Consider using a digital tool to track your child’s progress toward their goals. These tools can help you monitor progress, set reminders, and communicate with the school team.

Celebrate successes

Celebrating successes, no matter how small, is essential for maintaining motivation and building confidence. When your child meets an IEP goal or objective, take time to celebrate and acknowledge their hard work.

Tracking IEP progress can be collaborative between parents and the school team. By working together, you can ensure that your child receives the necessary support to succeed in school.

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

How To Take Care Of Self

March 1, 2023March 1, 2023Leave a comment

Taking care of oneself is crucial to living a healthy and fulfilling life. In our fast-paced and stressful world, it is easy to neglect our own needs and focus solely on the demands of our jobs and personal lives. However, neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, fatigue, and even physical and mental health problems.

So, what can you do to take better care of yourself? Here are some tips:

Prioritize sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and establish a regular sleep routine.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to maintain our energy levels and support our overall health.
Exercise regularly: Exercise is not only good for our physical health but also for our mental wellbeing. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day.
Practice mindfulness: Taking time to focus on the present moment can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can be helpful.
Connect with others: Spending time with loved ones, friends, or colleagues can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Make time to connect with others regularly.
Set boundaries: Learning to say no and setting boundaries around work and personal commitments can help to reduce stress and prevent burnout.
Practice self-compassion: Being kind to ourselves and treating ourselves with the same care and respect that we would give to others is essential for our mental wellbeing.
Take breaks: Short breaks throughout the day can help reduce stress and increase productivity. Take a walk, read a book, or do something that you enjoy to recharge your batteries.

We can support our overall health and well-being by prioritizing sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness, connecting with others, setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and taking breaks. So, make sure to take some time for yourself each day and prioritize your own needs.

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

Time Management: The Key to Success

February 6, 2023February 6, 2023Leave a comment

Time is a valuable resource, and managing it effectively is crucial for success in both personal and professional life. With the fast-paced and demanding nature of our daily lives, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like there are not enough hours in the day. However, by adopting a few simple time management strategies, you can increase your productivity, reduce stress, and achieve your goals.

Set Priorities: Start by identifying the most important tasks and prioritizing them. Focus on completing high-priority tasks first, and don’t let low-priority tasks distract you.

Create a To-Do List: Write down all the tasks you need to complete, and prioritize them in order of importance. This will help you keep track of your progress and ensure that you don’t forget anything important.

Use a Calendar: Plan your day, week, and month in advance, and schedule time for both work and leisure activities. This will help you avoid overloading your schedule and ensure that you have time for self-care and relaxation.

Minimize Distractions: Turn off notifications on your phone, close your email program, and eliminate other distractions while you’re working on important tasks. Focus on one task at a time, and avoid multitasking.

Take Breaks: Regular breaks can improve your focus and productivity. Take short breaks every hour or so to stretch, grab a snack, or simply step away from your work.

Learn to Say No: Saying no to low-priority tasks and distractions can free up more time for important tasks. Learn to prioritize your time and focus on what’s truly important.

Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly review your time management strategies and make adjustments as needed. Remember that what works for one person may not work for another, so be open to trying new techniques and finding what works best for you.

In conclusion, effective time management is about setting priorities, using tools and techniques to stay organized, and taking care of your physical and emotional well-being. Following these tips can increase your productivity, reduce stress, and achieve your goals. Start managing your time effectively today, and watch as your success grows!

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

What is Autism?

February 6, 2023Leave a comment

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. It is a complex condition and individuals with autism can have a wide range of symptoms and abilities. Here are some tips for supporting individuals with autism:

Provide structure and routine: People with autism tend to thrive on routine and structure, so having a consistent daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Use clear and concise language: People with autism may struggle with understanding figurative or abstract language, so using clear and concise language can help improve communication.

Visual aids: Visual aids such as pictures, symbols, and videos can help individuals with autism better understand and process information.

Emphasize social skills: Social skills, such as making eye contact, taking turns in conversation, and understanding social cues, can be challenging for people with autism. Encourage and support the development of these skills through role-playing and social skills groups.

Accommodate sensory sensitivities: Some people with autism have sensory sensitivities to noise, lights, or touch. Providing a quiet and comfortable environment and allowing for breaks from sensory stimulation can help reduce stress and improve functioning.

Encourage physical activity: Exercise and physical activity can help individuals with autism regulate their emotions, improve focus and attention, and decrease stress.

Seek support: Raising a child with autism can be challenging, so seeking support from family, friends, and support groups can help.

Respect their interests and strengths: People with autism often have unique interests and strengths. Encouraging and supporting these interests can help boost self-esteem and improve quality of life.

Be patient: People with autism may take longer to process information and respond, so it is important to be patient and give them the time they need.

Celebrate their progress: People with autism often make significant progress, no matter how small. Celebrating their achievements and progress can help build confidence and self-esteem.

Remember that every individual with autism is unique and may have different needs and abilities. By using these tips and being supportive, you can help individuals with autism reach their full potential.

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

Overcoming Doubt: A Journey to Self-Belief

February 6, 2023February 6, 2023Leave a comment

Doubt can be a paralyzing emotion, hindering our progress and keeping us from reaching our full potential. It can be easy to get stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, but the good news is that it is possible to overcome these feelings and learn to trust in ourselves.

Identify the root cause of your doubt

The first step in overcoming doubt is to identify what is causing these feelings. Is it a lack of confidence in your abilities? Fear of failure? Negative self-talk? Once you understand the source of your doubt, you can start to address it in a more targeted and effective way.

Reframe negative thoughts

It’s important to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. This may take time, but with practice, you can learn to identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more empowering beliefs.

Practice self-care

Self-care is a critical component of overcoming doubt. When we are stressed, tired or overwhelmed, it’s easier to fall into a cycle of self-doubt. By taking care of our physical and mental health, we can build resilience and maintain a positive outlook.

Surround yourself with positive influences

Surrounding yourself with supportive and encouraging people can help to boost your confidence and reduce self-doubt. Seek out mentors, friends, and family members who believe in you and your abilities, and spend time with them regularly.

Embrace failure

One of the biggest sources of doubt is the fear of failure. However, failure is a natural part of growth and learning. Embracing failure, learning from our mistakes, and using them as opportunities to grow, can help to reduce our fear of failure and build self-belief.

Celebrate your successes

It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. This helps to build confidence and reinforce positive self-talk.

In conclusion, overcoming doubt is a journey; it takes time and effort to develop self-belief. By taking small steps to challenge negative thoughts, practice self-care, surround yourself with positive influences, embrace failure, and celebrate your successes, you can build the confidence and resilience you need to achieve your goals. Remember, you are capable and deserving of success.

Meet Susie Liberatore

The Ultimate Branding Guide to Win New Clients in 7 Days

How To Be Successful As An Entrepreneur

February 4, 2023February 4, 2023Leave a comment

Over the years I have built my life the way I envisioned it. Since being single, I reflected on what success looks like. It looks different for everyone.

Many times people struggle with success and entrepreneurship. There is no easy recipe or one thing to do in order to achieve goals. Rather, it is a combination of things.

You have to be able to work on yourself constantly and accept criticism.
Admit you are wrong when you are
Set your own personal goals and hold yourself accountable
You have to have action plans and steps.
You have to learn how to manage time.
You have to be able to have systems in place.
Say no to things more often, without feeling guilty.
Outsource and delegate.

All of these have happened over the years one at a time. Each item takes time to overcome and you should take the time to celebrate your wins.

As I continue to grow my agency, I have been lucky and blessed to meet some amazing contractors that have allowed this vision to come to life even more.