#supportingchildren

I hope you and your loved ones are safe during this challenging time. In light of the ongoing wildfires, I’d like to share some helpful strategies and resources from The Help Group to support your neurodivergent child through this crisis:

1. Plan Ahead & Stay Organized: Collaborate with your child to create a clear, simple emergency plan. Use visual aids to help them understand and follow the steps, and practice evacuation drills to ensure they feel prepared.

2. Mind Sensory Needs: Be mindful of your child’s sensory sensitivities. Offer noise-canceling headphones, an air purifier, or comforting sensory items to help them stay grounded and calm.

3. Provide Emotional Reassurance: Use language your child can easily understand, minimize exposure to distressing news, and maintain familiar routines to provide a sense of stability and comfort.

4. Foster Safety & Familiarity: If evacuation is necessary, pack familiar items such as blankets, favorite toys, or sensory tools. Create a quiet, soothing space with soft lighting and calming activities to help your child feel secure, whether at home or in an emergency shelter.

5. Promote Supportive Connections: Ensure a trusted adult is nearby to provide comfort and reassurance. Continue to use familiar coping strategies that help your child regain a sense of calm and control.

6. Prepare for Health & Therapy Needs: Keep essential medical supplies and medications accessible. Reach out to your child’s therapist for additional strategies or virtual support options during this time.

7. Lead with Calmness & Compassion: You can help your child feel more secure by staying calm. Remember to care for yourself as well - reach out for support and take moments to recharge.

8. After the Crisis: Once things start to settle, quickly and gently reestablish normal routines. Give your child time to process their emotions, offer outlets for them to express their feelings, and be mindful of any signs of increased anxiety or behavioral changes.

For additional support, consider connecting with other families of neurodivergent children and utilizing crisis services. The Help Group offers a parent support group to help you through this difficult time. You can join their virtual sessions by reaching out to [email protected].

Access The Help Group's full list of strategies here.

Additionally, the Faces of Health app is an excellent resource, offering practical coping strategies, resources for managing stress, and tools to help you and your child feel safe and grounded. Learn more here.