How to manage autism during the COVID-19 pandemic Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a variety of effects. Major changes to a person’s daily routine, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, may present unique challenges to autistic individuals and their families. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define ASD as a “developmental disability” that can affect the way a person socializes, communicates, and behaves. This article discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic may affect autistic people and their families. It also provides some actionable tips for managing the effects of autism during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How the pandemic may affect autistic people A daily routine may help autistic children cope during the COVID-19 pandemic. Communities around the world are continuing to observe physical distancing measures in order to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus responsible for COVID-19. As a result, many schools and businesses remain closed. Now, many adults and children are simultaneously working and learning from home. Adjusting to a new routine such as this can present unique challenges for autistic individuals and their families. Many autistic children receive specialized care from health and behavioral specialists in their community. Children receiving Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention rely on in-person, small-group interactions. Schools and teachers provide yet another essential support network for autistic children. However, school closures mean that children have severely restricted access to vital educational services. Autistic children may not understand why their daily routine is changing, which may lead to stress, frustration, or anxiety. These emotional triggers can exacerbate the effects of autism and may lead to more severe behavioral and communication problems. Parents and caregivers may find themselves struggling to balance their professional and household responsibilities while supporting their children during these uncertain times. Page 16
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The following sections provide some tips on how to manage autism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Talk about COVID-19 Although some autistic children may not fully understand the nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, parents and caregivers can focus on explaining their family’s current situation and how it affects the child’s regular activities. If a child asks about the pandemic, try to use clear, direct explanations and avoid unnecessary details that could confuse or scare them. A simple explanation of the COVID-19 pandemic might look something like this: “The coronavirus is a new type of germ that can make people can sick. We need to keep ourselves and others healthy by staying at home.” Parents and caregivers can expand this explanation to include how other activities, such as family vacations and weekend outings, will be on hold for a little while. Let them know that they will continue doing their school work from home. Go over important precautions Also, explain that they can keep themselves and others from getting sick if they follow these precautions: • avoiding touching their eyes, nose, and mouth • practicing physical distancing by staying at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from other people in public areas • wearing a mask or cloth over their nose and mouth in public spaces • frequently washing their hands with soap and warm water or hand sanitizer Create a daily routine According to the Child Mind Institute, structured routines can help minimize negative emotions and behavioral problems in autistic individuals. People can minimize significant changes to their family’s routine by: • waking up and going to bed at the same time • doing school and work activities during weekdays • blocking out time for breaks, snacks, and screen time • cooking and eating meals at consistent times • scheduling social activities, such as video chats and phone calls with friends and other family members, on the weekend According to the Autism Society, parents and caregivers should reward flexibility. Allowing extra time to accommodate small changes may help prevent a person from feeling overwhelmed. (continued on page 17)
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