Excerpt from: HuffPost (click for full post)
Hurricane Sandy was a trial for all parents, but it was a particular burden for those whose children have special needs.
“By definition, kids on the spectrum are not usually go-with-the-flow kinds of kids,” said Dr. Rachel Busman, a clinical psychiatrist at the Child Mind Institute. “So having a lack of routine and structure can be difficult.”
Those parents took to the internet during the storm and its aftermath, sharing lists of organizations that specifically provide support for parents of children with disabilities, and posts with advice on how to calm kids feeling distraught or frightened.
To that end, The Friendship Circle, a resource blog for parents and educators, offers “How To Prepare Your Special Needs Child For The Next Hurricane.” It includes advice specific to a population with disabilities: keeping orthotics and medication in a backpack or duffle bag; making sure noise sensitive children have soundproof headphones; and making sure those who respond to touch have things like silly putty or a fuzzy blanket.
Comments