Honoring April as Autism Awareness Month while practicing social distancing
Updated: Apr 16, 2020
In honor of Autism Awareness Month, we are pleased to present our inaugural CARES newsletter. Our ever-growing CARES community is working together now more than ever to ensure our youth and families have access to the necessary services needed to thrive. Fred Finch CARES will be sending a monthly update about the exciting work we’re doing, as well as some tips and resources for families and children living with autism and other developmental disabilities.
While COVID-19 has many of us frustrated with limited access to social or recreational activities, these long hours at home and interruptions in our normal routines can be especially challenging for the parents and siblings of children living with developmental disabilities.
There is hope in providing children with helpful stimuli and activities as we navigate through the obstacles related to social distancing.
Helpful Resources for Parents
Here’s a guide to communicating with your child’s teachers and educators during mandatory shutdowns and a switch to homeschooling.
This article provides some suggestions and tips during shelter-in-place and quarantine scenarios.
Finally, sometimes just a little decompression can help everyone! This site offers soothing soundscapes when you need some relaxing ambient noise.
Supporting Autism Awareness Month During Social Distancing
With traditional activities like walks, runs, and in-person fundraisers out of the question while we’re all doing our part to flatten the curve, our staff at CARES has brainstormed some ways that you can show support for Autism Awareness Month from home:
-Social media: Be an advocate by sharing your story! Sharing your lived experience is a great way to increase awareness among your friends and family.
-Light it up blue, from home! In recent years, we’ve seen major public buildings and landmarks light up blue during Autism Awareness month. While most of us don’t have blue lights at home, a homemade poster in the window will go just as far and may be a fun activity for the family to do together.
For more information about Fred Finch CARES, or to inquire about our services, please visit our website: www.fredfinch.org/CARES
