COVID-19 Resources and Tips
We at the ENHANCE Lab realize that in a time like this, you and your family may be experiencing heightened anxiety and other concerns. Please see our list of crisis resources. In the event of a mental health emergency, we suggest contacting the Distress Centre and/or Community Resource Team. The latest information we have received states that both of these services are still up and running.
For information on COVID-19:
Here is a social story which aims to help explain the virus and the current situation to children
Up-to-date coronavirus information for Albertans
COVID-19 and Mental Health Podcast
We recommend that to manage your child’s stress (and your own), you attempt to maintain routines and keep things as structured as possible. This is especially important for kids with ASD.
Try to create a schedule for the day with time for learning, time for fun, and time for relaxing.
For those homeschooling, here are some fun educational resources
It is easy to be overwhelmed by information. If you can, distance yourself and your child from social media. Pick up a good book, learn a new hobby, play games as a family, or use a good meditation app (we recommend Headspace or Calm).
Socially distancing is very important to slow the spread of the virus to vulnerable citizens. Even though we should stay apart physically, it is important to stay in touch with supports. Call or Facetime with your friends and make sure to take time to Facetime with your kiddos friends/or family!
Practice self-care. Take a walk outside, exercise, take time to relax. Even if you don’t have a home gym, there are great exercise and yoga videos on Youtube that don’t require equipment.