COVID-19 Changes

As we navigate this public health crisis, Kinera Foundation is committed to being a valuable resource for families of children, teens and adults with disabilities and special health care needs. 

Updated July 2021

In-Office Occupational, Speech and Physical Therapy:
Currently, our office is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and we are offering in-person occupational, speech and physical therapy on those days in our two Therapy Gyms and Speech Therapy/Sensory Rooms. The following precautions are being taken to protect the visitors, patients and staff:

• COVID-19 Health Screening is completed via telephone, with a Kinera staff member, upon arrival for appointment. 
• Parents and children are met outside the facility upon arrival and completion of brief Health Screening.
• All parents and children must utilize the hand sanitizing station prior to entering the building.
• A Kinera staff member will take the child's temperature (and parent's temperature, if accompanying child). Anyone with a temperature greater than 100.4 will not be permitted access in the building; appointment will need to be rescheduled.
• All children and staff will be required to wear a face mask (2 years and older). If the child/patient doesn't have one, one will be provided for them.
• Parents are encouraged to wait outside for the duration of the child's appointment. However, if they need to be in the building for any reason, a staff member will take their temperature and they are also required to wear a mask.
• Shoes must be left at the door.
• Any objects that have been in the child's mouth will be removed and taken out of the rotation after their appointment and disinfected.
• There is extra time allotted for cleaning and sanitizing gym equipment, toys, floors, and restrooms.

Virtual Therapy & Support Services

• Teletherapy appointments offered Monday through Friday (as scheduled).
• Kinera Connect monthly parent meetings are held virtually, every month. Monthly guests and topics will be posted on our website and on our Facebook page.  
• Additional Virtual social groups for Tweens and Teens (11-17 years) and Adults (18+) are also available. Email Julie@kinera.org for more info on the these groups, specific dates and for meeting links. 

Helpful Articles, Links & Resources During Covid-19:
-Children's National Covid-19 Handbook for Kids
-Free Audible Stories for Kids!
​-State of Maryland Rumor Control Page for Covid-19
-How to Make a No-Sew Mask
-Virtual Field Trips 
​-Fine Motor & Handwriting Activities for Home
-Supporting Kids Through Covid-19
-More Virtual Museum Tours 
-The Benefits of Using a Visual Timer
-Mindfulness and how it helps children
-Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council Covid-19 Resources
-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
-Maryland Department of Health
-How to Wash Hands poster