TUCSON, Ariz — As the country shifted to quarantine, all of our lives, but for families with kids on the spectrum, the impact has been hard to manage.
Executive Director of the Autism Society of Southern Arizona Brie Seward said have a routine in place is important for a child with autism, but COVID-19 changed that.
"When our children with autism are thrown off routine it can be very difficult on families. Families are working from home, no school, I mean these kids were use to going to school everyday, eight hours a day. They’re use to going to services."
She said, even at home, it's important parents still try to make a routine for their child.
The nonprofit has set up an online visual COVID-19 tool kit to help children understand new social norms like social distancing.
It is also hosting Teen and Youth Virtual Meetup hosted by our partners at Playformance. Next class for teens is June 12 and kids is TBA.
To support parents, it is hosting a virtual Support group every Thursday at 5:30 p.m.
"1 in every 63 children in Arizona have an autism diagnosis," Seward said. "These families need support now, and we’re here to provide that for them."
Seward said her organization is also available by phone from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at (520-770-1541) to help families navigate their own unique situation.
