Linda is a disability champion who speaks to parents of children with Down Syndrome and community members and leaders. She frequently contributes to publications and podcasts that focus on disability advocacy and promoting full inclusion and accessibility to every aspect of community life for individuals with disabilities.

Empowering Families: Teaching Independent Living Skills to Children with Down Syndrome and Other Disabilities.

“It’s important to remember that although they have a diagnosis of Down Syndrome, they are children first. It may take them longer to learn self-care skills…”

Podcast Episodes

Featured Disability Articles

About Down Syndrome: Myths VS Reality

Many national and global Down Syndrome organizations are working hard to improve research, medical care, and overall services and support for individuals with Down Syndrome.

Myths vs. Reality

Myth #1: Down syndrome is a rare disorder.

  • The truth is that Down Syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. About one in every 770 babies born in the US are born with Down Syndrome, about 5,100 births per year.

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Linda Bonner Linda Bonner

Health & Wellness Month - Support for Individuals with IDD

Health and Wellness is more than hydration, eating nourishing meals, and getting exercise. Individuals with IDD may need additional support to access specialized care and feel confident and secure. Medical alert jewelry might be the answer for them.

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IDEA: The Impact Beyond Education

IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, has had an impact beyond education and the classroom. Students with disabilities are experiencing multiple benefits with access to personal and supported education.

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From School Life to Adult Life: Transition Planning for Students with IDD

Tis the season!  Not that season!  Instead, let’s talk about the season when students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) transition from school life to adult life.  With this milestone approaching, it becomes essential to start the planning process.  The goal is to create the most fulfilling and meaningful life for your young adult with IDD. 

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BEYOND LABELS: Embracing Understanding and Inclusion

“I believe change comes with education, training, engagement, kindness, and compassion.  At this very moment, people with disabilities around the world are challenging expectations, modeling perseverance, and showing what they’re made of!” Linda Bonner

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5 Life Lessons I Learned from My Son with Down Syndrome

When my son was born with Down Syndrome 35 years ago, I never imagined that he would teach me important life lessons. In his own gentle way, he did just that! He lives an unhurried, full, and positive life. He doesn’t harbor resentment or judge others. He just speaks his mind, always with kindness, and does what he loves.

He has taught me so much in the last 35 years.  From patience and hope to acceptance and love, he has changed my world in such a positive way!  I’d like to share five of the life lessons that have had the greatest impact on my life.

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Linda Bonner Linda Bonner

The Important Role of Fitness and Physical Activity for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), physical activity is important in supporting daily living activities and increasing independence.  This blog discusses the benefits of physical activity, the barriers faced by people with IDD, and how we can improve accessibility and inclusion for everyone.

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Linda Bonner Linda Bonner

The Childcare Dilemma for Families of Children with Disabilities

Every parent wants their child to grow up happy and healthy. For families with children who have disabilities, finding good childcare can be much more challenging. Many of these families face challenges that most people don’t see. It’s important to understand their struggles and help make things better.

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Linda Bonner Linda Bonner

“YOU SHOULD WRITE A BOOK.”

“You should write a book”. From the time my son was young, I kept hearing this from friends and family. I was in the throes of parenting so I couldn’t imagine having the time to write.  And to be honest, I didn’t understand why anyone would want to hear from me.  I was just an ordinary mom trying to navigate the world of Down Syndrome.

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Linda Bonner Linda Bonner

Individuals with Down Syndrome: Common Facial and Physical Features

Each person with Down Syndrome is an individual – with unique characteristics and traits. While Down Syndrome comes with some common physical characteristics it’s important to realize that individuals with Down Syndrome are more like the general population than different.

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