COVID-19 Challenges

It is the last day of July and it seems as if COVID has added so many challenges over the past six months. I know everyone is fatigued, and parents like us who have the additional blessing of guiding a vulnerable population need more guidance. After much thought and consideration, I cannot report that I have any meaningful solution. Having my daughter at home allows me to see her strengths, gives me comfort that she is safe and provides the rare opportunity of giving her the time she deserves to thrive. However, there is social regression. The fact is, we all need human contact. We have tutoring, occupational and speech therapy, singing and dance through Zoom. Though I am grateful to the many providers who stretch themselves to ensure our kiddos still thrive during these very trying times, communicating through a Zoom platform does not replace connectivity.

I have received so many phone calls about what we should do as parents in the coming weeks as we prep for school. As of now, I do not have an answer. This is an extremely personal journey. What I do know is we need funding to provide services for those who are unable to return to a traditional classroom environment. COVID sheds light on equity and inclusivity. We have to respond collectively.

So after much thought, I decided that a hybrid program is the best fit for my family. Who knows how this educational modality will go, but I think it is best for my daughter, who is entering high school. We have this rare opportunity to try innovative educational modalities during this COVID crisis, and after much review, our family is going to press the limits of technology to provide enrichment for our Aspy child. In our county, we have many programs and resources that provide enrichment activities from home. Thanks to many of my community friends, I also found some national resources as well.

15 Helpful County and National Resources

COVID-19 Challenges

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Kimberly G. Jackson

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