Covid- 19 and Autism

How do I explain to someone with Autism about Covid-19?

Good Morning all,

Since I am now stuck at home with the cats and our Gecko, with no meetings to attend and only admin to do, I thought I would make myself useful before I go crazy. The current situation is a struggle for anyone to understand let alone someone on the Spectrum. The sudden change in routine, media coverage of people stockpiling and emptying shelves, the imminent school closures and so many unanswered questions that no one has the answers to. Where do we even start?.

First, I think we need to explain the whole situation in a way that those on the Spectrum can understand. With all this free time I have scoured the internet looking for resources and anything that can help. Below is what I have found from video clips to social stories and worksheets there should be something for us all to use here:

What is Covid-19?

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a virus called coronavirus. Those who get Covid-19 will get:

  • a new, continuous cough
  • you start coughing repeatedly a high temperature
  • you feel hot to touch on your chest or back a shortness of breath

1. Dr Ranj explains Coronavirus for Children

2. COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Resource Pack

Download the pack

3. What is the Coronavirus Social Story? (Children)

Produced by The Autism Educator

Download here

4. My Coronavirus Story (young person / Adult)

Produced by easterseals

Download here

5. Coronavirus Explanation video (teens/young people/ adults) Video link

6. and something for the parents/carers https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/700childrens/2020/03/covid-19

Hopefully there is enough her to get you started and help to explain what the virus is to your child or young person.

Remember to follow the latest advice, self-isolate yourself and your family if anyone is displaying any of the symptoms for 14 days and always follow the latest government and Public Health advice given.

Let me just take this chance to tell you about 2 new services we are offering during the Covid-19 Period.

Our online Live chat is open to anyone who is feeling down, frustrated or just wants to talk to someone who gets it.

Run by volunteers all with children and family members on the Spectrum themeselves, they are there with a friendly ear to listen to to rant and vent, offer advice and jsut be someone else to talk to completly confidentially.

Our Virtual Support Groups! If you cant come to us will come to you throught he power of the internet. This si a fun session where we encourage you to join us to talk to others. Hosted by ASD Helping Hands we aim to answer your questions, find out what other families are doing during this time and just relax. So grab a coffee and join us.

Stay Safe and Well my friends.

Lee Gibbons

Operations Manger

ASD Helping Hands