The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted many changes in our everyday lives. Social events have been cancelled, schools are closed and our routines have been greatly disrupted. For many of our parents of children with GRIN Disorder who already felt physical, emotional and financial strains, adapting to this “new normal” has only been amplified by the virus outbreak.

In addition, many of our children have compromised immune systems due to GRIN Disorder, putting them more at risk of contracting COVID-19 with serious consequences. As businesses and schools open back up, we know our children would highly benefit from returning to in-person learning, but will have a harder time doing so safely.

The Effects of Quarantine

“Quarantining has been the hardest. There is no socialization for Nick right now. He needs it”. Renee G. (GRIN1 Mom)

“Quarantining was so tough for Kaelin. She thrives on her routines, seeing the other kids in her class, getting her therapies and learning new things. When we had to quarantine, she did not do well doing her therapies on Zoom. Her routine was disrupted. She did not see any friends. She would grab her coat every day and ask Bye? How do you tell these little pleading eyes that it is not safe to go anywhere? When we could send her back to her daycare class, she became a different kid. She smiled and laughed more. She was excited to get up and go. I knew how I felt with this quarantine…but to my daughter, it was like her life was taken from her.” Kelly L. (GRIN2A Mom)

“Quarantine and remote learning for siblings has meant the longest stretch of no hospital admissions that Andrew has ever had!” Erika D. (GRIN1 Mom)

Lack of School and Socialization

“Not going to school for socializing. Carson loves being around other kids and Even though he can’t tell us, I know he misses it.” Shannon G. (GRIN1 Mom)

“My daughter had COVID-19 without symptoms. We were aware because I had fever so went all to be tested. She had no problems. Instead, when the school was suddenly closed for lock down, she was very affected and upset. Now it’s been months that she can’t meet friends that were so important for her and loss lot of therapeutic moments like horse riding, music therapy, and swimming.” Federica M. (GRIN2A Mom)

“Holden schooling. The lack of in person was a struggle, but it’s been a month since he has back in the classroom and he is thriving. Routine and structure make for a perfect day. Thankfully the virus hasn’t affected him or our family physically. We are extremely careful, but we count our blessings.” Kim S. (GRIN1 Mom)

More Bonding Time with Immediate Family but Contact Less with Others

“Covid has meant less interaction with loved ones who desperately want to see our girl. She was born at the beginning of the covid lock-down, and still hasn’t been able to meet everyone who waited so long for her arrival! At the same time, it has meant so much more bonding time at home with parents and siblings!” Mandi N. (GRIN1 Mom)

“I was worried about missing in person school and therapy this past year, but the extra time at home this past year has actually been beneficial for my GRIN kiddo. She has been able to spend much more time with us and her older, typically-developing, sister. She has been learning more about communication and life skills by having an older role model around, and learning through play and imitation.” Tiffany F. (GRIN2B Mom)

“My daughter is blossoming from being home more with family during COVID-19. I had another baby during COVID-19, and her baby brother is now saying “mama” and “dada”. I see that my daughter is learning from her baby brother and this repetition she experiences from her brother has helped her to learn too.”  Leah B. (GRIN2B Mom)

We are grateful to our GRIN Disorder parents for providing a unique window into their lives by sharing the positive and negative impacts of COVID-19. Sometimes it is difficult to find that silver lining, but joy can sneak up on you in unexpected ways.