Together, we are facing an extraordinary situation with new challenges and uncertainty. Easter Seals Ontario is monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely and taking direction from the government and public health departments.
Despite the challenges brought forth by COVID-19, we remain committed to doing everything we can to continue to make life accessible for children and youth with physical disabilities. With this in mind, we have assembled the following resources to help the families we serve stay safe, healthy and informed while at home during these challenging times.
Please use and share the following resources. It is imperative that we continue to support each other as we navigate this crisis together.
Important Information
Easter Seals Ontario Response to COVID-19
Learn how Easter Seals Ontario is responding to this evolving situation and continuing to support families. Click here to read our full statement.
Ontario COVID-19 Web Page
Ontario has launched a new dedicated web page to provide a relevant and up-to-date summary of data from Public Health Ontario. Visit covid-19.ontario.ca for more information.
Ontario Government Support for Families
While schools and child care centres are closed, parents can apply for direct funding to offset the cost of buying materials to support their children’s learning, while they practice self-isolation and physical distancing. Click here for information about eligibility and how to apply.
Ontario Emergency Assistance Program Update
The Government of Ontario has announced changes to Ontario’s Emergency Assistance Program for those on social assistance or who are not able to access federal assistance. This includes help with basic costs for people on Ontario Works (OW) and for those receiving Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Click here for more information about eligibility and how to apply for funding.
Resources for Children
Accessible Chair-Dance Routine
Looking for a way to keep fit at home? Try this accessible chair-dance routine from Canadian Pole Fitness Association certified instructor and Easter Seals mom Heather Mitchell. View the routine here, and find more from Heather at bodylanguage.ca.
Inclusive Indoor Fun for Families
The Children’s Treatment Network of York Simcoe has created a list of activities for indoor fun together for kids of all abilities. Visit ctnsy.ca to access this resource.
Stuck Inside Stretches
Grandview Children’s Centre has put together a series of stretches that the whole family can do together to reconnect with their bodies and manage stress. Visit grandviewkids.ca to access this resource.
From My Window
The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario has created this window display card containing words/symbols that can be used to comment on what is seen outside. Visit cheo.ca to access this resource.
What to Do While in Isolation
connectABILITY.ca has pulled together information and resources from around the world to help support people with disabilities and their families during COVID-19. Visit connectABILITY.ca to access this resource.
Tip Sheets and Resources
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital has put together information and resources for families and children, including tip sheets on legal rights and learning schedules during the Coronavirus outbreak. Visit hollandbloorview.ca to access this resource.
Let’s Wash Our Hands
The Region of Peel has created this poster to demonstrate correct hand washing protocol to children. Visit peelregion.ca to access this resource.
Hand hygiene for individuals with spinal cord injuries or who use assistive devices. Tips from the University of Toronto.
COVID-19 Easy Explanation
The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario provides simply worded information, basic guidelines and positive affirmations that are supported with picture communication symbols to aid understanding. Visit cheo.ca to access this resource.
Storybook to Help Children Understand Coronavirus
Social narratives are a great way to prepare children for new situations. Use this on-line book, My Coronavirus Story, from Easterseals Illinois Autism Partnership Chicago, to talk to your child about staying safe and healthy at home.
Making a Routine
The Kids Occupational Therapy team at Grandview Children’s Centre puts together some useful information to help families find the right routine for them. Visit grandviewkids.ca to access this resource.
Additional Resources
Caregiver Supports During COVID-19
Easter Seals has assembled a list of resources from government, individual and community organizations to help families during this extreme situation. Find the full list of resources here.
Update on Safety Measures
The Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) has provided a statement with information on the precautions that they are taking to protect workers and families. Many VON organizations provide personal care and support to children with physical disabilities through the Special Services at Home Program and Personal Support Workers. Visit von.ca to access this resource.
Self-Isolation Guide for Caregivers, Household Members and Close Contacts
Public Health Ontario has created this guide for those who are caring for or living with someone who have COVID-19. Visit publichealthontario.ca to access this resource.