Making a brochure about coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) for children with autism spectrum disorder and their family members

Families With Children With Neurodevelopmental Disorders During COVID-19: A Scoping Review

“…In addition to routine disruption, children with ASD may have difficulty comprehending the rapidly changing situation (Cahapay et al, 2020; Eshraghi et al, 2020; Kong, 2020 ; Majoko et al, 2020). Coupled with their inability to communicate and express themselves effectively, their limited understanding of the situation may elicit major emotional upheaval, unnecessary anxiety, and maladaptive behaviors, such as frustration and self-aggression ( Kawabe et al, 2020 ; Kong, 2020 ; McGrath, 2020). In two qualitative studies (Cahapay et al, 2020; Majoko et al, 2020), parents described how they introduced their children to the new social norm, and one parent commented: They cannot easily comprehend new normal, so I take extra effort to let them understand the situation…I allowed him to drive around the city and told him that almost all establishments are close because of a disease (Cahapay et al, 2020).…”

“…In order to mitigate a child’s stress and reduce unnecessary anxiety, a top priority would be to provide the child with critical information about the COVID-19 pandemic and explain why he or she has to stay home (Glasper, 2020; Kawabe et al, 2020 ; Narzisi, 2020a). Educating children on preventive behaviors such as regular hand washing, maintaining social distancing, and wearing masks can give them a sense of control over the risk of infection, which may allay their fears and worries ( Kawabe et al, 2020 ; Kong, 2020 ).…”

“…Although this is not in line with current policies, parents and caregivers should be allowed to remain with their children during health checkups to ensure efficient processes (Eshraghi et al, 2020). Moreover, children with ASD may also be hypersensitive and unwilling to wear masks in public (Eshraghi et al, 2020; Kawabe et al, 2020 ). Hence, the development of a home-based COVID-19 testing kit would also be ideal, especially for families with children with ASD (Eshraghi et al, 2020).…”

“…Parental communication with children about the COVID-19 situation should be prioritized as parents often have the misconception that avoiding discussions about stressful feelings or situations would protect their children from distress when the contrary holds true ( Dalton et al, 2020 ). Apart from using simple and age appropriate language to explain about the pandemic, visuals should be used to educate on the best hygiene practices to provide the child with a sense of control over the situation as well ( Kawabe et al, 2020 ).…”

“…The disruption of daily routine poses an even greater problem for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities as established routines promote stability and allow the child to know what is expected of them. Therefore, sudden changes in routine, and the child’s inability to adapt and comprehend the changes may result in heightened anxiety, frustration, and emotional breakdowns, especially in children with autism ( Kawabe et al, 2020 ; Kong, 2020 ). Additionally, the closure of schools, and special education and rehabilitative centers may result in a “COVID-19 slide,” where children display patterns of learning loss and skills development impediment ( Kuhfeld & Tarasawa, 2020 ).…”