Pandemic Parenting: 5 Strategies for Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is challenging for all children, but numerous studies have found that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been particularly vulnerable. Social isolation, disruptions in daily routines and decreased access to therapies have all contributed to increased anxiety, new challenging behaviours and regression in children with ASD.

Just like no two children with autism are the same, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to pandemic parenting. To help you and your family cope, here are five helpful strategies you can tailor to your family’s unique situation.

1. Stick to a routine

In one study of children with ASD, it showed that children who did not keep a routine during the pandemic had higher levels of anxiety than those followed a schedule. Although it can be hard to keep a routine during uncertain times, you can still organize your day so your child knows what to expect. Try writing down a weekday and weekend schedule and following it as closely as possible. Set times for play, schoolwork, meals, and bedtime that are as close to your pre-pandemic routine as possible.

2. Stay social

As the parent of a child with ASD you have likely spent a considerable amount of time and effort developing your child’s social skills. While your child might not be able to interact with peers at school, or in play groups, it’s important to find new ways to maintain their social skills. Some autism service providers are hosting virtual hangout sessions for children with autism, or you might be able to schedule outdoor play sessions with a playmate.

As much as it’s important for your child to stay social, it’s more important than ever for caregivers to stay connected. You may want to consider joining an online ASD community group to connect and share ideas with other parents who can relate to your current experience.

3. Reevaluate goals

In normal times, your child may have been making progress towards certain goals – particularly if they were enrolled in applied behaviour analysis (ABA) therapy. In the new environment however, they may have considerable behavioural regressions, or developed new challenging behaviours.

In light of the pandemic, you may want to reevaluate your child’s goals in a more realistic way. Perhaps your child might not work to develop new skills, but instead work on strengthening or maintaining some foundational skills. Or perhaps reducing a new challenging behaviour will be your sole focus. Right now there is only so much you can control, and setting realistic expectations will help you feel more accomplished as a parent.

4. Keep up with therapies

If possible, try to keep up with therapies your child was participating in before the pandemic. Many autism service providers continue to offer in-person therapy and follow strict COVID-19 protocols to keep everyone safe. If in-person therapy isn’t an option for your family, you can speak with your provider about virtual or hybrid options.

If therapy is not an option for your family, following a positive reinforcement strategy based on ABA therapy principles have been proven to be very effective for children with ASD and their families.

5. Practice self-care

As the parent of a child with ASD, you are likely feeling the effects of the pandemic yourself. A recent study showed that caregivers of children with ASD were overall more anxious and more likely to develop lasting psychological effects of the pandemic than those with neurotypical children. When possible, carve out time to spend on your well-being by doing something that helps you relax and recharge.