Abstract
With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic and shelter-in-place, families with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face a unique set of challenges related to a diverse set of issues. A qualitative study was conducted in the form of semi-structured interviews from fifteen parents of children and adolescents from a non-public school for children with ASD. Questions covered the following topic areas: general COVID-19 experiences and concerns, changes in the child’s mood and behavior, changes in parent mood and behavior, and coping/advice. Quotes and descriptions from the participants were reviewed and grouped into thematic areas. Findings showed that parents of children with ASD are facing a wide range of challenges, including explaining COVID-19 and safety precautions to their child in a comprehensible way, assisting with e-learning, and guiding their child back into social situations and the community. As children with ASD have difficulties with transitions, parents stated the importance of creating structure in the home by creating schedules and boundaries, while allowing for flexibility as to not over enforce the rigidity children with autism often face. Advice on coping with the additional stressors were also shared. Parents recommended finding time for themselves to reset, utilizing support systems, and reflecting on daily pleasures as positive coping mechanisms. This study aimed to both develop an initial guide for families, teachers and clinicians caring for children with ASD and to create awareness in the community about the challenges presented by COVID-19 and shelter-in-place.
Highlights
Introduction1. How has shelter-in-place affected you and your family?
All parents included in analysis had a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Limitations and Future Directions This study provides insight into both the challenges and potential solutions to the numerous complex issues that arise when parenting children with ASD during a pandemic
Summary
1. How has shelter-in-place affected you and your family?. 2. How would you describe your discussions with your child about COVID-19? How did you explain COVID19/safety precautions to your child? (Optional question—it may or may not be applicable to your child depending on child’s communication abilities). 3. What does a typical day look like for you and your family since shelter-in-place?. 4. What concerns do you have about the couple weeks/months regarding your family and child? 5. Have you observed any declines in your child’s behavior? Please consider restricted and repetitive behaviors, social skills, aberrant behaviors (Ex. hyperactivity, irritability, lethargy, inappropriate speech) Have you observed any declines in your child’s behavior? Please consider restricted and repetitive behaviors, social skills, aberrant behaviors (Ex. hyperactivity, irritability, lethargy, inappropriate speech)
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