Dr. Liz Matheis, The Mighty — “The coronavirus (COVID-19) — the new viral strain that affects the lungs and respiratory system — has affected  our society, increasing our levels of anxiety.

Now that social distancing and self-quarantine are very real parts of our world right now, many children will be home for weeks to come without a real end date. If you’re a parent of a child with autism, this upcoming change in your schedule is likely triggering your own anxiety.

Autism is a neurodivergent way of showing up in the world, associated with characteristics like passionate interest in specific topics, difficulty with ‘typical’ communication methods, sensory sensitivities and using repetitive motions (called stimming) to regulate overwhelming experiences.

The change in the routine due to COVID-19 may upset or throw off your child. It’s a transition and transitions can be difficult and frightening for many kids on the spectrum — and you may be facing resistance from your child. So, how do you, as a parent, help your child with this upcoming change in routine and more time at home?

I have a few ideas on how we are going to get through this, one day at a time:

1. Keep it the same… as it’s becoming different.

I urge you to maintain a similar schedule from day-to-day. Set a wake-up time, a time for lunch (perhaps the same as your child’s school schedule), screen time and bedtime. If you can, try to mimic your child’s school schedule by having periods of time during which certain activities will take place.

It’s very easy for our children to be entertained by an iPad, television or computer, but stick to time limits. Create a visual schedule with times or duration for each activity and follow it throughout the day. Build downtime for you as well as your child so you aren’t overwhelmed either.

With that said, stick to your new or revised routine so that your child can rely on the familiar amidst the unfamiliar.

2. Keep it positive.

As you are staying open to your child’s difficulty with this change in schedule, try to embrace the extra time you have with your child and try to do something fun together. If you can, try to make the most of this time that we do have in our homes with our families.

3. Keep anxiety out of the mix.

If your child is sensing your anxiety about the change in routine and about the thoughts you are having about the coronavirus, it’s time to take some deep breaths, incorporate yoga, meditation or walks into your day to help you manage your anxiety.

As humans, we are creatures of habit. Many of us thrive on routine and familiarity and dread a change. I am sending all parents everywhere good health vibes, prayers and patience while we figure out our new normal over the next few weeks!”