The psychological impact of quarantine on children with autism spectrum disorder Given the imposition of unfamiliar health measures that infringe on personal freedoms, the closure of schools, the lack of contact from extended family members, and the exposure to COVID-19 related information from adults around them, it is perhaps not surprising that children are especially susceptible to psychological difficulties associated with the current pandemic (Danese et al., 2019). Arising from these unprecedented times, a range of practical and useful guidelines have been offered by others in helping parents provide honest and clear information about the virus and the inherent uncertainty about the local and global effects of this (Dalton et al., 2020).

The COVID-19 lockdown has led to governments around the world imposing varying levels of restrictions and lockdowns leading to home confinement and closure of schools. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families may be particularly susceptible to increased anxiety. Parent-led cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for child anxiety disorders has developed a growing evidence base. The current pilot study aimed to evaluate the preliminary clinical utility (acceptability, feasibility, and efficacy) of a parent-led CBT program through an online format. Parents of nine children completed the program. The child did not participate in any part of the online program. Acceptability was strong, and although technical issues were problematic at times, all families completed the program. Preliminary efficacy analysis is mixed, with significant reductions on youth anxiety as measured by clinician administered questionnaire but no reduction in parent-report measures. Findings suggest that the online program is acceptance, feasible, and effective.