Our Story
Hi, I’m Jen Richcreek Jones. I’m a mom, a nana (to an angel and a miracle), a writer, and a strong advocate for autism and other disabilities. My oldest daughter was diagnosed with autism in 1992, and I’ve been learning about and living with autism ever since. In 1999, my son was also diagnosed. Through the years, I’ve found that faith in God and laughter are what have carried me through some very dark days.
Following a life-long dream to write, I published my first book, Autism, Apples and Kool-aid, in 2024. In 2025, I co-wrote I Wuved Her First with my daughter, Mandy. Autism, Apples and Kool-aid shares my family’s journey with autism—the lessons I’ve learned and the funny stories that have kept us laughing along the way. I Wuved Her First shines a light on sibling relationships when autism is involved, again weaving in personal stories and plenty of humor for readers to enjoy.
I’m one of the parent organizers of our local support group, always looking for fun and meaningful activities to bring us together. I also work with first responders to help them better understand autism and to prepare families for emergencies. Sharing knowledge is important to me, because I believe the more people know, the more accepted and included individuals with disabilities will be. In addition, I write for our local newspaper and share our family’s adventures through blogs and on Facebook.
When I’m not writing or advocating, you can usually find me with a good book in hand, crocheting baby blankets for babies born in Heaven, playing with my dog, Blue, or spending time with my amazing family and friends.
Navigating the Journey of Autism
Parenting Tips
Practical advice and everyday strategies for navigating autism and grief with patience, humor, and heart.
Community Outreach
From school programs to first responder trainings, see how we’re working to spread awareness and create understanding in the community
Family Stories
Sharing our journey through the written word—our Blog & our books, Autism, Apples and Kool-aid and I Wuved Her First—stories of love, laughter, autism, and healing.
Educational Resources
Guides, insights, and tools to help families, professionals, and friends better support children with autism and families experiencing loss.
Parent Support
Resources and encouragement for parents walking this path—because no one should face autism or loss alone.
Honoring Our Children.
Celebrating the children who are with us today, while remembering and cherishing the ones we have lost. Love carries them all.
Blog Posts
Frequently Asked Questions
How old were Casey and Rob when they were diagnosed with autism?
Casey was 4 and Rob was 6. She showed signs as early as a year old (if we had known what we were seeing) but he just didn’t talk much. He started showing more characteristics when he got in school.
What do you think causes autism?
I’m not sure. I think it’s probably a combination of factors, like genetics and environmental. It does seem like some families have several people with autism, while others only have one person. The cause has never been that important to me as it doesn’t help us now.
What is the first thing I should do if my child gets an autism diagnosis?
Just breathe. The first time you hear it, it might take your breath away and you’ll start hearing horror stories about autism. Remember that your child with a diagnosis is the same child you loved without the autism diagnosis. Don’t try to think far into the future. Then, get an expandable binder and start keeping all of the documents you get from doctors, therapists, etc. You will need them.
Do you believe medication is a good option or should we avoid it?
I can only answer for us – everyone needs to talk to their child’s doctor about their options. For our family, medication was a life-saver for both Casey and Rob. They feel better when they take it and will ask for it if it’s not ready when they think it should be.
What therapies have you tried? How do I know what to try?
Casey and Rob both had speech therapy for years. They also had occupational therapy while they were in school – for fine motor skills and sensory issues. We did equine therapy for 12 years, too, and they both loved that. Right now, Rob has aquatic therapy once a week to help with his anxiety. Again, you’ll have to talk to your child’s doctor about different options and do your own research for what is available in your area.
Are Casey and Rob alike?
No, not at all! Like all siblings, they do have some similarities, but they are also complete opposites. She likes to go new places and he wants to be home. She likes to try new things and he is hesitant. He is more prone to anxiety and is more likely to stim vocally, while she needs movement to self-stim.
Testimonials
"Jen was truly a Godsend to me after my son was diagnosed with autism when he was 2. At that time I felt alone in this journey and had no idea what the next step was or how to get there; that is when I met Jen at my first Ask Autism meeting. In the last 4 years she has given me support as an autism parent and allowed me to vent when needed as well as ask questions. She has provided guidance and friendship and I am forever grateful for her part in our journey."
-April Goodwill
"You have been their for me in ways I didn’t know I needed in this autism journey, always available to listen and you created the best group I honestly don’t know what I’d do without you and the ASK group."
-Ashley Wilson
"Jen Jones and the ASK Autism group in Coshocton County are making a tremendous difference for families. Through her leadership, compassion, and dedication, Jen has created a safe and welcoming space where families affected by autism feel understood, supported, and empowered.
One of the key strengths of Jen’s work is her collaboration with the Coshocton County Board of Developmental Disabilities. By working closely together, Jen and the Board have been able to connect families with vital resources, enhance community awareness, and promote inclusion throughout the county. Their partnership ensures that families not only have access to information but also to the right supports at the right time.
The ASK Autism group provides valuable opportunities for connection and education, helping parents, caregivers, educators, and community members learn from one another and grow together. Jen’s ability to bring people together—families, community, and service providers—has fostered more understanding and accepting of individuals with autism."
-Steve Oster