Sweet Shade Ability Center and Disability Services programs remain closed as the City of Irvine continues to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). However, the Disability Services team is continuing to provide resources for those with disabilities and their caregivers at home to stay entertained, educated, and safe. Browse the educational and recreational resources below for ideas.
Disability Services staff will be offering virtual activities in health and wellness, reading, games, and arts and crafts. Register at yourirvine.org.
American Psychological Association: Find American Psychological Association's COVID-19 information and resources here.
Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules: Find resources for individuals with autism who may need additional support to process the news and adapt to the many changes the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) brings. Learn more here. Find a PDF on Supporting Individuals with Autism Through Uncertain Times here.
Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks offers continuously updated resources and information for people with autism and their families navigating the spread of COVID-19. Learn more here.
Braille Institute: Find Braille Institute's frequently asked questions related to COVID-19 here.
Deaf Community Services: Find coronavirus information and resources for the deaf community here.
Department of Rehabilitation: The California Department of Rehabilitation continues to provides services and advocacy on employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities. Learn more here.
Department of Social Services: The California Department of Social Services provides information on public heath, taxes, child care, adult protective services, and more in light of the coronavirus. Learn more here.
Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness (GLAD): Find information and resources from GLAD related to COVID-19 here.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Find NAMI's official guide providing resources and information on COVID-19 here.
Veterans Affairs: Find COVID-19 resources for veterans here.
CAST: Parents looking to teach their kids at home can browse this nonprofit's free, research-based learning tools designed to help educators develop flexible learning environments for all students, including those with disabilities. Learn more here.
Center on Technology & Disability: Browse resources for families and educations of children and youth with disabilities for ideas on online learning. Learn more here.
National Center for Special Education in Charter Schools: Find webinars, news, and resources for educators, advocates, and parents of students with disabilities. Learn more here.
Pretend City: Virtually explore Pretend City in 3D, and learn more about its exhibits. Learn more here.
At-Home Activities: Disability Services staff has created crafts and activities with step-by-step instructions you can complete at home. Click the links below for easy-to-follow PDF instructions:
• DIY Pipe Cleaner Cactus
• Peanut Butter Bread
• Propeller Plane
Take-Home Craft Kits: Pick up free craft kits — supplies included — from Sweet Shade Ability Center. Pick-up locations will be thoroughly disinfected and all safety procedures will be followed. Kits are available for pick-up by appointment Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Contact Disability Services staff at 949-724-6637 to reserve your kit now.
Online Exercise: Disability Services staff are offering virtual guided yoga and other health and wellness classes. Register online at yourirvine.org.
Outdoor Outings: The City of Irvine's parks and open spaces remain open for passive use, and are the perfect place for "recess!" While outside, while still making sure to practice social distancing (maintain a distance of 6 feet from other individuals). Alternatively, enjoy a short outing in your own neighborhood for some fresh air. Find information on Irvine trails and maps at cityofirvine.org/trails.
Special Olympics Fit 5: The Fit 5 Guide provides tips on physical activity, nutrition, and hydration. Learn more here.
New American History: This nonprofit offers free tools and resources on a variety of history topics including politics, civil rights, and much more. You can search by reading and grade levels. Learn more here.
Women's History: Check out exhibits exploring women's contributions to history, including women in STEM, NASA, and more. Learn more here.
National Museum of the United States Air Force: Take virtual, 360-degree, self-guided tours of the entire museum from your own computer. Learn more here.
National Park Service Cameras: Experience Channel Islands through a live ocean webcam here, or check in on the area's nesting bald eagles through live cameras here.
Pacific Marine Mammal Center: Enjoy free presentations on marine wildlife and the ocean environment. Learn more here.
San Diego Zoo: Take a peek at the pandas, penguins, polar bears, and more through the San Diego Zoo's live wildlife cameras. Learn more here.
Virtual Nature Tours: Explore the many wonders of Yellowstone National Park from your own living room. Learn more here.
