Elopement, or wandering, is a significant concern for parents and caregivers of children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This behaviour involves a child leaving a safe environment without permission or supervision, often driven by a desire to explore, seek sensory stimulation, or escape a stressful situation. According to research, many children with autism engage in elopement behaviors, which can lead to dangerous situations such as getting lost or encountering traffic. The unpredictable nature of elopement requires immediate attention and effective strategies to ensure the safety of these children.
Elopement and Autism | Addressing elopement in children with autism involves a multifaceted approach, focusing on understanding the underlying causes and implementing preventive measures. Behavioral interventions, environmental modifications, and constant supervision are crucial components of a comprehensive strategy to manage elopement.
Read more about Elopment and why children may elope.
Parents and caregivers must collaborate with healthcare providers, therapists, and educators to create a supportive environment that reduces the risk of wandering. By recognizing the triggers and employing targeted interventions, families can help their children navigate the world more safely and confidently. Here are 25 practical tips and tools to help prevent elopement and deal with it effectively.
Elopement and Autism | Safety Measures at Home
- Install Door and Window Alarms
- Install childproof locks and latches on doors and windows that are out of reach of the child.
- Secure Outdoor Area Ensure that yards and gardens are fenced with locked gates to prevent unsupervised exits.
- Visual Barriers Use stop signs or visual cues on exits to remind children not to leave without permission | Download Free STOP signs to use for visual cues
Technology and Tracking
- GPS Devices : Equip children with GPS tracking devices to monitor their location in real-time.
- Smartphone App Utilize tracking and alert apps designed for caregivers of children with autism.
- Use journaling or daily tracking to identify triggers that may cause elopement.
Communication and Education
- Teach Safety Skills Educate children on recognizing boundaries, responding to their name, and staying close to caregivers.
- Visual Schedules use visual schedules to help children understand daily routines and transitions.
- Social Stories Create social stories that illustrate safe behaviors and the importance of staying in designated areas.
Environmental Modifications
- Create Safe Spaces : Designate safe areas at home where children can retreat if they feel overwhelmed – this could be personalized like a Sensory tent or a simple couch or chair with a weighted blanket in a quiet room.
- Minimize Sensory Triggers – Identify and reduce sensory triggers in the environment that may prompt elopement.
Community and School Involvement
- Educate the Community Inform neighbors and local community members about the child’s tendencies and how they can help.
- School Safety Plan Work with schools to develop individualized safety plans and protocols for children prone to elopement. | Recommended: Check out and download the free safety plans provided by Autism Speaks
- Staff Training Ensure that teachers, aides, and school staff receive training on autism and elopement prevention.
Emergency Preparedness
- Create an Emergency Plan Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that includes steps to take if the child elopes. | See Children’s Treatment Network Safety Plan
- Emergency Identification Ensure the child has identification, such as a bracelet or card, with contact information and medical details. | The tags can be a real life changer in case your child wanders off (pricing starts at $6 on Amazon)
- Alert First Responders Inform local police, fire departments, and emergency services about the child’s tendency to wander. | Check out Path Finders For Autism Saftey Tips and Kits Plans for various scenarios including interacting with the Police, EMS and Fire Department
Behavior and Therapy
- Behavioral Interventions Work with behavior analysts to implement interventions that address the underlying causes of elopement. | Set clear goals to address elopement
- Occupational Therapy Engage with occupational therapists to help children manage sensory processing issues that may lead to wandering.
Family Support and Resources
- Support Groups Join autism support groups to share experiences, strategies, and resources with other parents and caregivers.
- Respite Care Utilize respite care services to give (yourself /caregivers) a break and reduce stress.
- Advocacy Resources: Access resources from organizations like the National Autism Association (see their Red Safety Box Initiative) and Autism Speaks for legal advice and support.
Practical Tools and Products
- If you are headed for a crowded space or travelling consider using added safety precautions- for example, a toddler walking rope to ensure your child remains close in public places or during travel.
- Tracking Tags Attach tracking tags to clothing or shoes to help locate children quickly if they wander off. | Using the Apple AirTag allows you to track it on your phone
By implementing these practical tips and tools, caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of elopement and ensure a safer environment for children with autism.
