We have a new Featured Parent to introduce you to!

 

Fun and Function: Who are you and your kids?

Jennifer Garrison: I'm Jennifer Garrison and my kids are Nathan, 3 1/2; Karina, 5 1/2; and one more (daughter!) on the way.

 

FF: What is the nature of their special needs?

JG: Nathan has mild to moderate Autism.

 

FF: What would you say is your biggest challenge in raising a child with special needs?

JG: Trying to ensure a somewhat "normal" childhood for all of my children. Allowing each of them their own interests when they are so different is daunting at times! Making sure my kids can simply be kids!

 

FF: What would you say is your greatest joy in raising your kids?

JG: Hearing them laugh and seeing them happy.

 

FF: What would you say has been the biggest help you in raising your kids?

JG: My studies and access to professors and research. I have a BA in Linguistics, am a second-year grad student in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Kansas, and also work as a "brain trainer" at LearningRx.

 

FF: Give us one tool you would hate to live without.

JG: My knowledge base and experience in working with kids.

 

FF: If you could give one piece of advice to another parent who's child has just been diagnosed, what would it be?

JG: Get into the current research! You know your child best, so gain the knowledge and facts about current findings and treatment options. You will feel more in control and be a better advocate for your child if you are not feeling "in the dark" when talking to therapists and other professionals.

 

Jennifer, thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us and all the readers here at Fun and Function.

If you would like to be a featured parent or professional, just let us know!