Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health and Safety Guide
ASERT has compiled resources for those with autism and those who care for people with autism relating to the current COVID-19 outbreak.
Family Members
Whether it’s a sibling, grandparent, cousin, aunt, uncle or parent, it can be difficult to know how to properly support your family member on the spectrum. ASERT’s broad database of autism resources includes a variety of information helpful for family members.
Check out some of our top resources highlighted below, or search through the hundreds of resources available for family members!
The Spectrum of Communication
Communication permits us to advocate for our needs, develop relationships, and participate in our community. When supporting someone with Autism, the most important thing to keep in mind at all times is that speech does not equal communication.
View ResourcePA Family Network
The PA Family Network was created to support families and the major elements of the Community of Practice goals.
View ResourcePennsylvania Family Support Alliance (PFSA)
Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance provides education, support, and training programs to make Pennsylvania safe for children.
View ResourceSearch within Family Members resources
Video: Parenting in a Pandemic
This video focuses on the difficulties and strategies real families and caregivers are having during this time of social distancing.
Read moreVideo: Sleep Hygiene
This presentation provides information about sleep hygiene, the importance of sleep, and tips for developing good nighttime sleep habits.
Read moreVideo: Teaching Infection Control
In this video, tips and suggestions are provided on how to teach individuals new skills.
Read moreVideo: Telehealth
This presentation provides an overview of telehealth, and important tips on using telehealth to connect with providers.
Read moreVideo: Wellness and Mindfulness Strategies
In this video, tips and strategies are provided for families/caregivers on wellness and mindfulness techniques.
Read moreVideo: When You Can’t Go Home After Hospital
This video for families and caregivers how to plan for care after a hospitalization for COVID-19, including what to do if the person isn't able to return home after being discharged from the hospital.
Read moreVolunteering
This resource developed by ASERT helps individuals figure out what they'd like to volunteer for, where to find volunteering opportunities, and who to volunteer for.
Read moreWashing the Dishes Social Story
This resource developed by ASERT helps individuals learn how to wash the dishes by hand.
Read moreWearing a Mask and Communication
As a result of COVID-19, health care providers have recommended people wear masks as a way to prevent the spread of the disease. Wearing masks can be uncomfortable, and for individuals who have sensory sensitivities, it can be even harder. These resources provide a guide for families and caregivers on how to work with loved ones on getting comfortable wearing a mask, different types of masks based on individual needs, as well as information on communicating while wearing masks for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Read moreWearing a Mask Social Story
This resource provides a visual guide for individuals with autism about wearing a mask to avoid spreading germs. The resource includes why it's important to wear a mask, as well as information about how to safely wear and remove masks. The resource is translated into Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, and Burmese. An animated version is also available.
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