This will be a very difficult time for all families but particularly anxiety provoking for those with young people with ASD, but there is some advice available from a number of different sources including:
https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/talking-to-your-child-about-coronavirus/
https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/what-to-do-if-you-re-anxious-about-coronavirus/
At Autism North East we have also pulled together some general suggestions which families may want to try – just remember you know your young person best so use your judgement when trying these.
- Staying Active – children’s stress levels and ability to manage their emotions can be affected if they are unable to let off steam and exercise. Try the following:
- Use any outdoor space you have (garden) to get children to undertake activities such as following a keep fit regime (5 hops, skips, star jumps, running on the spot etc).
- Watch/download any of the free activity programmes for kids that are being offered at the moment especially by nurseries/celebrities (and join in with them).
- Getting Fresh Air – this can be from going into the garden or just by opening windows when it’s warm enough – this can help air in the house to circulate but also reduce feelings of being cooped up.
- Getting into Nature – helping children to be more aware of the nature around them can be really helpful both as an interest and positive focus.
- Growing seeds on a windowsill – to help them to focus on new life
- Bird watching – put out a bowl of water and a bird feeder/plate of crumbs and watch each day for any birds that come into the garden (there are many free resources on line you can download for children to tick off what they see).
- Staying Creative – helping children’s minds to keep active by:
- Doing jigsaw puzzles
- Making models/kits (that you may have had stored away/forgotten about)
- Making cards for other family members/friends that can be posted out to them
- Completing colouring sheets (there are many free to download eg mandalas)
- Routines – try to keep to normal routines eg bedtimes as much as possible.
- Different Zones – Try to vary places where you spend time e.g. kitchen table for activities