Tips for supporting autistic children at home during the coronavirus lockdown.

Below is a link to a paper that has been written, titled -

'Handle the Autism Spectrum Condition During Coronavirus (COVID-19) Stay At Home period: Ten Tips for Helping Parents and Caregivers of Young Children'

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340366877_Handle_the_Autism_Spectrum_Condition_During_Coronavirus_COVID-19_Stay_At_Home_period_Ten_Tips_for_Helping_Parents_and_Caregivers_of_Young_Children

Many of these tips would support ALL of our children, such as- 

• Explain to your child what COVID-19 is  (see the social stories shared on this blog).
• Structure Daily Life Activities.  
• Semi-Structured Play Activities. 
• Use of Serious Games. 
• Implement and Share Special Interests. 
• Leave Spare Time.

Looking after your mental health and wellbeing - 4

'A guide to anxiety for kids'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfSbWc3O_5M

'What causes anxiety and depression - Inside Out'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNsTy-j_sQs

Below are some tips from 'helpguide.org' aimed primarily at children with autism, however they are tips that all children benefit from, especially at the moment. 

Provide structure and safety

Be consistent. 

Stick to a schedule. 

Reward good behaviour. 

Create a home safety zone. 

Find different ways to connect

Look for nonverbal cues. 

Figure out the motivation behind the 'tantrum.' 

Make time for fun. 

Pay attention to your child’s sensory sensitivities. 

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/autism-learning-disabilities/helping-your-child-with-autism-thrive.htm

Something fun, quiet, calming and therapeutic everyone in the house could do- shadow drawing. Whether the sun is shining, or you use a lamp.