As most classrooms and curricula are built around children without autism, at-home learning can be an opportunity for your child with autism to excel. While not every parent has the time to tackle home learning full time, you may want to utilize as much time as possible to make sure your child is staying occupied and entertained in way that fits with their learning patterns.

We encourage you to keep the following tips in mind while parenting during COVID-19:

•  Create a schedule.​ Your child will respond well when they understand what to expect each day. From learning to playing, everything can be put on the schedule so that your child knows exactly what to expect minute to minute.
•  Establish a routine.​ A predictable routine will give your child a sense of consistency, which is especially important when their past routines have been disrupted by the pandemic.
•  Build activities around their interests​. Most children with autism have special interests and have the ability to place intense focus on those interests. Building fun and learning around these interests can keep them happy and satisfied.
•   Create rewards for positive behaviors​. COVID-19 has likely disrupted your entire household, not just your child’s life. Keeping things positive and rewarding good behavior is always a good idea.
•   Take time to assess how they’re doing​. All children can become overwhelmed, but children with autism may express this differently. As the parent, you’re likely an expert at interpreting their mood. Be sure to make the time to assess how they’re doing.As the threat of COVID-19 continues to impact the way we live, keep in mind that nothing is set in stone, and you are the person who knows your child best. We encourage you to use these tips as a jumping off point for creating a good at-home environment for your child. And remember to give yourself room and don’t expect things to be perfect.If you need help, don’t forget that The SEED Center of Stamford is here to provide Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA therapy) and other autism services you need. We can provide these services at our state-of-the-art autism treatment center or in the comfort and safety of your own home throughout Fairfield County.

Call today to learn more about what we do and how we’re continuing to assist children with autism and their parents during the time of COVID-19 and beyond!