Autistic Child In Quarantine, How To Help Him
World Autism Awareness Day was celebrated on April 2. The ISS National Autism Observatory has published a series of advice for appropriate support for people with autism spectrum in the current state of emergency. Quarantine itself is a problematic situation for all families. For those who have to manage an autistic child in quarantine, however, it is even more difficult, due to the particularities of this disorder.
Autism spectrum disorder
Before understanding how we can help a child with autism in quarantine, it is worth defining the ASD. It is a neurobiological disorder that affects the brain’s ability to develop and maintain adequate communication and social skills.
ASD typically occurs in the first three years of life. Impairment of social and communication skills is evident with a marked disturbance of conduct and difficulty in relating to the environment.
People with SLD often have poor social, emotional and communication skills. That is why in the current state of compulsory isolation these subjects require the utmost attention.
Their condition makes them vulnerable, as they may lack the constant specialist attention they need. So let’s see how we can help them.
Autistic child in quarantine
For a person with ASD, routine is essential. The closure of schools, offices, health facilities and more was a major blow. Attending these environments is his way to maintain order and good control over daily life.
Confinement can be very difficult for an autistic child. The disorder itself is very heterogeneous. There will, therefore, be children who tolerate quarantine without problems and others who will become exasperated, depressed or upset.
Faced with this reality , the governments of several countries have provided special authorizations for autistic people and the relatives to whom they are entrusted. Among these, short walks for therapeutic purposes.
In general, it is sufficient to prove the beneficiary’s SLD status by bringing a certificate of disability. All over the world, it has also been advised to wear a blue bow, headband or other accessories of this color. This is to make people with autism better identifiable.
Helping the autistic child cope with the pandemic
With schools closed, assistance centers with reduced service and the near impossibility of going to public places or taking a walk, families with ASD have found themselves alone.
How to help autistic children during quarantine? One of the indications on associations and specialists agree is to create a routine that helps them organize their daily life. It is especially important to have a plan to follow as autistic people need predictability. The safety and anticipation of events reduces their anxiety.
Another tip is to keep communication open about what is happening. It is important for a child to know why we are in quarantine, how long it will last and how to take care of our health. If necessary, we can help you with audiovisual material, books or newspapers.
Other tips for the autistic child in quarantine
In addition to informing the child about what is happening, it is essential to convey peace of mind. The message must be clear, simple, with the right information and always based on reliable sources. The calm of the adult translates into less stress and distress for the child.
Finally, those who care for a family member with autism at this time must also take care of themselves. This allows you to find the energy necessary to create positive habits, transmit information and serenity; but also to find the time and pleasure of being together, the best way to be close to the most vulnerable people.
