We have a new Featured Parent to introduce you to, Jessica H Kollar!

Fun and Function: Who are you and your kids?

Jessica H. Koller: I'm Jessica H. Koller, and my kids are Gabriel, 5½ and Zachary, 2½.

FF: What is the nature of their special needs?

JHK: My oldest son Gabriel was diagnosed with autism the day after he turned 4.

FF: Do you have a blog?

JHK: Yes, Being a Tree.

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

JHK: I find combing through all the various therapies, educational options, medical treatments, other parents' anecdotal information, research, and studies to discern what fits our child to be the greatest challenge.

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

JHK: Seeing my boys' unique gifts unfold before my eyes and being loved so deeply.

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

JHK: My community. They are the ever-present power of deep trust in life, real communication that moves us when we're stuck, and staying connected to what's important as we navigate through the unknown.

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

JHK: The internet.

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

JHK: Get in communication with other parents like you. They are a priceless well of information, support, and can provide a longer time horizon view of what you're stepping into. (FEAT-NT, Autism Speaks, and Fun & Function are at the top of my list.)

Jessica, 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!