We are seeing out first glimmer of hope after weeks of bad and frightening news -the COVID-19 curve is flattening. Our communities are going to reopen, albeit in stages and at different times and rates depending on regional data. It is exciting to be able to move about again, to have some shops open, and resume enjoyable activities. There are warnings, however, that things will not be back to normal. This leaves us with the big question – what is the new “normal”? What will life look like in different settings such as daycares, schools, universities, businesses, grocery stores, recreational pursuits and cultural events? After two months of restrictions, how to we prepare the individuals we support with ASD navigate this new world?
1.Teaching New Rules To Those With ASD
The COVID-19 safety measures and protocols will differ from place to place. It is a good idea to call ahead to where you are going and ask what their expectations are. One little grocery shop I visit requires you to use hand sanitizer and shop with gloves. Whatever produce you touch, you must buy. My son’s specialist clinic has their door locked and you must wait outside until a nurse comes. She then takes your temperature, gives you a questionnaire, and then you may enter. Some stores will limit the amount of people in, ask that only 1 person do the shopping, some will continue with curbside pickup. By calling ahead and knowing what to do, there will be no surprises and that gives predictability.
There will also be people who disregard the rules and do what they like. My daughter will have big problems with this so I will have to tell her that some people will simply ignore the rules and we just have to stick with doing the right thing.
2.Sensory Issues and Safety Measures
Hand sanitizer, gloves and masks will more than likely continue to be safety protocols, particularly on public transit. If you have not been taking your child out during this period of isolation, start practicing using these items. Experiment with different types of masks as they can be made from different materials. If using a special fabric with a favorite color or design on it will motivate the person to wear it, see about having some made or make them yourself. There are also ideas on how to make a face mask more comfortable.
Hand sanitizer feels cool, watery and slippery to the touch but it does evaporate quickly. Try getting used to using hand sanitizer at home before venturing out so that the feeling of using it is not a surprise. Frequent use is also drying to the hands so introduce moisturizer if necessary. Provide instruction with visuals on how and when to use hand sanitizer. The same goes for hand washing – instruct when and how to do proper hand washing.
3.Social Distancing
Social distancing is likely to stay in place for some time. Review the 2 meter distancing rule and why this measure is still required. Here is a good social distancing social story presented in several languages. There are videos available as well.
If an individual has an aide or support worker to assist them, social distancing will not be possible. Explain the difference about this versus distancing from a friend or stranger in a store.