While all parents are finding it difficult to cope and figure out the new routine during this time, parents of kids with special needs, including autism, intellectual disabilities, ADHD and more, may be experiencing additional stress without access to the supportive services and networks they rely on so much. In addition, kids with special educational needs may be struggling without the safety and security of their familiar school day routine.
Fortunately, there are resources available to make this time a little easier for kids with special needs and their parents.
- From NPR – How To Talk About COVID-19 With People Who Have Autism
- Autism Speaks offers advice for coping with disrupted personal routines during COVID-19
- The Child Mind Institute has assembled a whole host of supportive and clinical resources for families.
- Wolf + Friends is an app that creates a community of moms and mentors in your area who are raising children with special needs such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental delays, behavioral challenges, mental health issues, and sensory processing disorder—in a private, judgement-free space. It also provides access to relevant news and products and allows you to search for necessary services in your area.
- The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has created a Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope With the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
- Mindfulness for Caregivers
- Grants and Resources for Families Living with Autism
Resources for families in Pennsylvania:
- Parents can join Deputy Secretary Ahrens for an update on the Office of Developmental Programs response to COVID-19 and changes in the service system for people with an intellectual disability and/or autism.
- PA Family Network is also offering webinars to help families and individuals with disabilities navigate the impact COVID-19 currently has and will have in our lives.
In addition, there are a variety of support groups available online and through social media. And as always, current Pressley Ridge families can contact their workers for support during this time. If you or your child could benefit from any of the programs or services offered by Pressley Ridge, please email us at info@pressleyridge.org.