Spring Roars into Summer with Natural Disasters

The month of May is usually associated with finishing those end of the year IEP meetings at school, then making plans for summer camp, family vacations, and juggling day care responsibilities. But for many American families this past month has been inundated with back to back natural disasters that have stolen that normally joyful transition from spring to summer. For any family with a child with autism or other special needs, the ensuring chaos of surviving the event then losing a home, possessions, routine and even other family members or friends can be devastating. 

Let's make sure we stay aware of the needs of these families in Alabama, (tornadoes) Mississippi, Louisiana (floods) and now Missouri (tornadoes).  Here are some great links for more information on how you can help. 

Autism Cares is providing some financial support for families who have been impacted by these tornadoes or other crisis/hardships.

The American Red Cross is a good source of information and organization for recovery needs in individual areas.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network is a great resource for tips for teachers and parents on helping kids after a natural disaster such as a tornado.

To help with emergency preparedness with children check out the FEMA Ready Kids program or I like these recommendations from Emergency Dude.

Stay safe and prepared!

What would you do if you lost your child's favorite comfort object, weighted vest, or outfit because of a devastating storm?