Childcare, Learning and Education Tools Resources
COVID-19 Resources for Supporting Students with Disabilities
National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI) provides resources, strategies and support materials for K-12 special education during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Resources for the Disability Community
Access Living has compiled a variety of resources, including disability health information, schooling activities, self-care and meal information.
COVID-19 Social Stories and Story Books for Children and People with Disabilities
Pathfinders for Autism has put together a list of social stories, books, printable resources and videos to help children and individuals with disabilities learn about the coronavirus, wearing a mask, social distancing and hand-washing.
COVID-19: Where to Get Help for Illinois Families
Information for Illinois families on how to find assistance with meals, childcare, unemployment, housing, learning and instruction, healthcare and immigration during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please visit the IDHS Information and Resource During the COVID-19 Crisis website for more details.
Deaf Success in Fall 2020: Guide for Families, Parents, and Students
The National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes has created this guide filled with key strategies to support deaf success with your child during fall 2020 and beyond. It is also available in Spanish.
Digital Accessibility in the Age of COVID-19
As COVID-19 makes digital connection increasingly important, the American Association of People with Disabilities offers resources to enhance Digital Accessibility in the Age of COVID-19.
During this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, individualized education program (IEP) teams have a unique educational opportunity to create meaningful distance learning activities at home for transition-age students. The PACER Center provides this handout for how parents can help their children practice and learn new skills to prepare for adulthood.
Distance Learning and Students With Disabilities Resources
PACER has developed multiple resources for families to help prepare them and their children for distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tip sheets and handouts are available in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali.
- The National Dance Institute has a series of YouTube videos of their inclusive dance program called the DREAM Project (Dancers Realize Excellence through Arts and Movement). The project provides children with disabilities the opportunity to dance and perform. Each dancer is encouraged to achieve their best through teamwork, creativity, empathy and discovery.
Early Intervention Clearinghouse Technology Loan Program
The Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse (EIC) technology loan program helps families in early intervention participate in live video visits or telehealth. Available technology includes:
- iPad with a data plan (you are requesting a device for live video visits that also has an internet plan)
- iPad without a data plan (you are requesting a device for live video visits and already have internet access)
- Hotspot (you have a device for live video visits but require internet access)
Quantities are limited. To apply to receive the technology, please complete a device loan request form. (The device loan request form is also available in Spanish.)
The EIC also provides tips on preparing for a live video visit.