While services before the age of three are written into an Individualized Family Service Program (IFSP), children ages three and older receive special education and related services through the implementation of an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This information sheet from PACER answers the question: What happens to this process when schools are only doing distance learning during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic?

Parents and caregivers of children and youth with disabilities are facing unique challenges as a result of COVID-19. For example, while social distancing has been widely promoted as the best strategy to avoid transmission, that advice may not be realistic for people who care for children and youth with disabilities who may require therapy or assistance with daily tasks. This research from the American Psychological Association offers ways to help families, caregivers and children cope during the pandemic.

During the coronavirus crisis, many families who have children with autism spectrum disorder are coping with the suspension of both school and essential services. Additionally, children with autism often have difficulty adjusting to disruption of their routine and environment. The Child Mind Institute's Autism Center offers these resources to help parents and other caregivers support children with autism during this time.  

Being a teenager is difficult no matter what, and the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is making it even harder. With school closures and cancelled events, many teens are missing out on some of the biggest moments of their young lives - as well as everyday moments like chatting with friends and participating in class.  

For teenagers facing life changes due to the outbreak who are feeling anxious, isolated and disappointed, know this: you are not alone. UNICEF spoke with expert adolescent psychologist, best-selling author and monthly New York Times columnist Dr. Lisa Damour about what you can do to practice self-care and look after your mental health.

States, districts, and schools are working 24/7 to make timely decisions about how to keep the "virtual school doors" open to all students. It is essential that the needs of students with disabilities be considered throughout all decision-making and planning processes. It's the law, and even (or perhaps especially) in times like these, we need to safeguard these students' rights to a free and appropriate education.  

This article from the National Center for Learning Disabilities offers four things you can do right now to position yourself and your students with disabilities for success during this transition to online learning.

To support the millions of educators, Google for Education has created this hub of information and tools to help teachers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. It includes tips on how to make lessons accessible, keep students engaged, and teach remotely with -- or without -- video calls.

Get the site here:

Event	When	Where	Cost	Link
Better Hearing & Speech Month	May	Everywhere	--	More Info
Transition: Grade to Grade (PEAK Webinar)	May 6 11:00 am to 12:00 pm	Online	Free	More Info
Helping Military Kids Understand and Cope with COVID-19 (Military Child Education Coalition Webinar)	May 12 11:00 am to 12:30 pm	Online	Free	More Info
Global Accessibility Awareness Day	May 21	Everywhere	Free	More Info