Chicago Resources
The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health provides this collection of resources, which includes videos, tool kits, activities to use at home and more to support parents, caregivers and their children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Topics include:
- Self-care and coping with stress/anxiety
- Talking with kids about COVID-19
- Supporting youth and young adults
- Specific diagnoses and special needs
Illinois COVID-19 Testing Sites
The Illinois Department of Public Health provides a list of COVID-19 testing sites at https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/testing.html.
A list is also available at https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/testing-sites.
Complex Child’s COVID-19 Information
Complex Child, an online magazine written by parents of children with special healthcare needs and disabilities, has created a special section on tips and information about COVID-19 and children who are medically complex.
Children/Youth with Special Healthcare Needs – COVID-19 Checklist
The Ohio Department of Public Health developed this checklist for families of children with special healthcare needs to protect themselves during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Can Parents Find Safe Child Care in Emergencies?
Stop It Now! provides guidance about how to safely approach emergency care needs for children.
Young Children at Home During the COVID-19 Outbreak: The Importance of Self-Care
Information from Zero to Three in English and Spanish about why self-care is essential for parents during the pandemic.
A self-care assessment tool from the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Coronavirus Resources & Tips for Parents, Children & Others
Prevent Child Abuse America provides concrete tips for physically distancing while staying emotionally and socially connected.
The Little Gym is sharing free online gymnastics classes for babies, toddlers and school children on its YouTube channel.
City of Chicago Emergency Assistance Registry for People with Disabilities or Special Needs
The City of Chicago has created a voluntary registry for individuals who may need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Individuals with disabilities or special needs or their caregivers can sign up at www.cityofchicago.org/voluntaryregistry/ or contact the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) at (312) 744-7050 for additional information.