IDD and COVID-19

 2020 is the year century that will live in infamy.  Ok, it wasn't actually one hundred years, but it sure felt like we aged quite a bit.  I, for one, am thrilled that a vaccine is here and being rolled out.  And fortunately my state has prioritized (after a bit of prodding) people who care for children who have developmental disorders for vaccine deployment!  And as a Phase III trial participant myself, I am going to have the opportunity to receive the vaccine before others in my age group.  All of this is very exciting news!

In the meantime, however, approximately one in seven children in the United States live with some form of developmental disability and living a year in some form of lockdown has resulted in regression for many.  What can we, as parents and advocates, do to support our kids?

The Cleveland Clinic has provided some tips for dealing with COVID-19.  I'll run down a few of the highlights.

1.  To the extent possible, try to maintain a routine.  This can be difficult as schools and daycare facilities move from in-person to hybrid to online.  To the extent possible, try to ensure that the same person is providing the same care at the same times as usual.  One of the things that I enjoy doing is going to the park everyday, which ensures that no matter what she

2.  Check in with your children.  How are they feeling?  Tantrums may be more frequent, and this is understandable. 

3.  Try to explain as best you can what is occurring, and what your child should expect.  Remember that many young children with disabilities need frequent reminders and repetition to understand.  

4.  Check in with other caregivers, be they therapists or family members.  Everyone should be on the same page.  Model use of masks and handwashing.  Everyone should be using the same messaging, and the same words or other communication strategies to provide that consistency and repetition that is so important for children--and especially for children with disabilities.

5.  Try to maintain a similar schedule as they did before COVID, particularly for school aged children.  It may also be necessary to review your child's IEP or 504 Plan to ensure adequate supports are being providing for your child's circumstances.  And to the extent possible, utilize technology and "bubbles" or "pods" to provide social connections.  

This is an incredibly difficult time.  But fortunately, we are close to an end due to the amazing work by scientists and researchers who have created a very effective vaccine.  Our job as parents and advocates is to ensure that our children and their caregivers get the vaccine as soon as possible, and in the meantime, to model effective mitigation strategies for our kids.