This continues to be such an unfamiliar time, I would be lying if I told you I am not struggling. I know I am not alone, and, honestly, that helps me so much. I keep telling myself to be patient, have grace and know that we are in this together. School being canceled for the rest of the year was a lot to digest. I believe it is the best thing for us and we will all be ok, but, friends, I am not a teacher. nor do I know how to schedule a school day for a special needs child. BUT, in the scheme of things, I will make it work. I will create a plan, one that allows creativity, one that allows downtime and one that continues to remind me that this will be temporary IF we all do our part.
I am not saying it will be easy, BUT, this is so much bigger than us and it is something so unknown- it is also not forever. So, let’s embrace it together. Stay safe, do the best we can and know that some days will be better than others. Allow ourselves some room for error, create the memories we can with what we have and work together for the goal of flattening the curve.
I have not been writing, it is not coming easily to me. I am in full “share resources mode” and hope that I find some time and inner self searching to be able to have writings to share with you in the weeks ahead. For now, there are so many great resources we are finding to help keep our days full, and in some creative ways. Our kids can learn in different ways and do different things. Let go of what we knew and try to find the fun in what will be for a short time.
I have been using cooking as science, board games as math , puzzles for an escape and dancing for some exercise. If you have ideas, please share them with us. Here is my banana bread recipe with Marky!
We are so thankful that many have created virtual sites, activities and workshops for us during this time. Many links are included here and we will continue to share regularly on or Facebook page.
Here are some RESOURCES, many local from our sponsors that we have found to be very helpful.
- Jacob’s Chance Programs Go Live for 3/30-4/3– updated weekly
- ASCV Shares MANY Resources During COVID 19 Times
- Friendship Circle Workshop on Kids all being home
- Aveanna Offering Telehealth For You During This Time
- PEATC webinar on schooling for kids with disabilities
- Behavioral Health Services of Virginia Offers Counseling and ABA Services via Phone & Tele-health
- Next Steps Offering Resources During This Time
- RAIN Virtual events
- Connect with Village Dance Studio’s On-Line Classes
- Take a Home Schooling Break… Book A Virtual Gaming Party with Gametruck Richmond
- CA Is Still Here To Service
- AnswersNow Offering FREE Full Support For Our Families During This Time
- Kids bored? Missing their friends? Safe Online Gaming with Friends Sponsored by Heart and Mind
- Northstar Academy’s COVID-19’s Planning Update For Students
- Speech Connections Provides Teletherapy
- TACA Critical Roles For Critical Competence
- Khan Academy Schedule Ideas
- Children’s Museum Blog Of Resources & Info
- Free Fender Guitar Lessons
- Free Month Of Amazon Books
- Free Online Gym Classes
- Explore Hidden Parks
- 3 months free on the Peloton App
- Modlin Center Virtual Events
- Josh Gad reading books nightly
- 45 Pantry Recipes From Mom Advice
- Virginia Museums * More Virtual Trips
- Super Mario teaches typing
Take a listen and watch this. The video that I listen to and find hope in, This was an incredible play, when the time comes that we can get out, add this to your list of things to do. Dear Evan Hansen. Thank you.
Please watch the CDC, for the latest news.
April is World Autism Month , although I look forward to this every year, this time, it is just different. We need to be coming together for all and have acceptance for all, it feels more important than ever. As we all are going through these challenging times together, our wish is that you and your families are staying safe and healthy. My wish for us all is to find ways to show kindness and compassion to one another.
Be sure to check the site and Facebook to stay up to date. If you have anything you want to share or add, please get in touch. This site is for you, we need to and want to know what works! You can email Carissa or Tricia.
With Gratitude and Commitment,
Carissa