Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on children with ASD is essential for developing effective interventions. The study, conducted with 150 parents in Saudi Arabia, revealed significant disruptions in the eating behaviors and daily routines of children with ASD. These disruptions were influenced by factors such as the number of children with ASD in the family, the age and gender of the children, and the severity of their ASD symptoms.
Key findings include:
- Significant changes in eating behavior, with children exhibiting increased rejection of food based on color, shape, and texture.
- Alterations in daily routines, particularly morning routines, which were the most impacted.
- The severity of ASD symptoms and the age of the children were critical factors influencing these changes.
For practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of personalized and adaptable interventions. Here are actionable steps to enhance your practice:
1. Collaborative Interventions
Work closely with dietitians, nutritionists, and behavior analysts to create comprehensive intervention plans. These plans should address the specific eating behaviors and routines disrupted by the pandemic.
2. Parent Training and Support
Provide parents with training on how to manage and support their children's eating behaviors and routines at home. This can include strategies for food presentation, texture management, and routine establishment.
3. Utilize Online Therapy Platforms
Leverage online therapy services, such as those provided by TinyEYE, to offer consistent support and intervention. Virtual sessions can help maintain therapeutic continuity and provide real-time feedback to parents and caregivers.
4. Develop Virtual Helplines
Encourage the establishment of virtual helplines that parents can access for immediate support and guidance from professionals. This can help mitigate the feelings of isolation and helplessness that many parents experience.
By implementing these strategies, practitioners can better support children with ASD and their families during challenging times. Continuous research and adaptation of intervention methods are crucial for achieving positive outcomes.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Parents’ perceptions of the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on the eating behaviors and routines of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
