The response to best prevent the spread of COVID-19 is social distancing. Not an easy task for anyone. As we are now mostly homebound, it is possible to find comfort as we take cover during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Make Use of Community Services
In addition to meal delivery services such as UberEats™, there are many other services we should take advantage of. Recently, I postponed mailing a package because I had misgivings about going to the post-office and ‘picking up the virus’. Then, I remembered the USPS offers Click-N-Ship. I put the items into a standard mailing envelope, taped on the bar-coded shipping label I had printed out, and dropped it off at a local mailing center. Package pick-up is also available. Have you heard about all the delivery options available using Shipt™? They deliver from most major retailers and grocers, pharmacies, and office supply chains. In addition to the convenience these services provide, they also go a long way in giving you some measure of reassurance and calm as we weather this health crisis.
Mealtimes Mustn’t Be Mundane
It’s natural to go into survival mode during times of crisis. Or at least that’s what I blame for all the basic staples and canned goods now lining our kitchen cupboards. The result? Our meals of late have become quite boring. Being the foodie I am, I wasn’t having it anymore. So, I decided to add an element of fun. And what’s more fun than carnival food? Take funnel cakes, for instance. I followed an easy YouTube™ tutorial from Fifteen Spatulas™ and…VIOLA! (if you don’t have a funnel, a pitcher will do). Now’s as good a time as any to go from convenience foods, to the comfort foods you enjoyed growing up. Why not ask your mom for the recipe for your childhood fav-broccoli, rice, and cheese casserole recipe? Include those ingredients on your shopping list and give it a go.
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You Are Your Child’s Best Teacher
With public school closures, many parents have now taken on the important role of educating their children. As challenging as it may be, there is a certain joy to be had when learning happens in your child. You have all the tools you need. Remember, you were your child’s first teacher. The attachment between parent and child will ensure a positive learning experience. Children are most comfortable seeking help from a parent. You will naturally dole out praise and hugs at seeing your child’s successes.
The chances of reaching learning goals are high! Be sure to also accommodate your child’s need for play. Being a play partner to your child will prove to be an equally fulfilling adventure.
Enjoy the one-on one time with your time with your children. I promise you it will be the best take-away from this pandemic.
Support for Parents of Special Needs Children
Families may experience interruptions in the services their special needs child receives due to to COVID-19. Children with special needs typically receive specialized services from numerous professionals. If your child was receiving therapy of any kind, inquire with the staff assigned to your child for information on goals your child was working on prior to the interruption. Also, how you can help to keep things rolling.
AFFIRM recently posted a COVID-19 Toolkit titled ‘Supporting Individuals with Autism During UncertainTimes’ you may find helpful. If you are needing support, be sure to stay connected with family and friends. Align with your autism community.
Check out Feedspot’s™ List of Top 50 Autism Blogs. A description of the content posted and of the author is provided.
Finally, professional online counseling services are provided though betterhelp.com.
Best Wishes to You for a healthy home and community during this very uncertain time. -Elena