Childproofing is a must for any parent, but it takes on a whole new level of importance when you have an autistic child who wanders. The usual precautions like locking cabinets, covering electrical outlets, and installing baby gates can only do so much.
Parents can get creative with their solutions to take childproofing to the next level. For example, instead of just locking the front door, why not install a combination lock that only the parents know the code to? Or, instead of just putting up a fence around the yard, why not add a motion-activated alarm that sounds when someone tries to climb over it?
The Art of Distraction
Distraction can be a powerful tool in preventing wandering. When a child with autism starts to get restless and agitated, parents can redirect their attention with a fun activity or game.
For example, if the child loves puzzles, keep a few on hand and bring them out when needed. Or, if the child enjoys sensory play, have a bin of kinetic sand or water beads ready to go.
Tech Gadgets to the Rescue
Technology has advanced greatly in recent years, and there are now a variety of gadgets that can help prevent wandering.
GPS trackers are a popular option, as they allow parents to keep tabs on their child’s location at all times. There are also smartwatches that can send alerts when the child strays too far from a designated safe zone.
But it’s not just about tracking the child’s movements. Devices can also alert parents when doors are opened or the child is in danger of wandering off.
In Case of Wanderlust: Immediate Response
When an autistic child wanders off, it can be a scary experience for everyone involved. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place for when it happens. Here are some tips for what to do if you are wandering.
Assemble the Search Party
The first thing to do is to assemble a search party. This should include family members, friends, and neighbors. Ensure everyone knows what the child looks like, what they are wearing, and other identifying information. Assign specific areas to search and make sure everyone has a way to communicate with each other.
Alert the Authorities with Flair
If the child has been missing for more than 15 minutes, it’s time to call the authorities. When calling 911, make sure to provide as much information as possible. Tell them the child’s name, age, and any medical conditions they have. If the child has a tracking device, make sure to mention that as well. And don’t forget to add some flair to your call. After all, you want to make sure they take you seriously.
The Neighborly Network Notification
While you’re waiting for the search party and authorities to arrive, it’s time to activate the neighborly network notification system. This involves knocking on doors and alerting your neighbors that your child is missing. Make sure to give them a description of the child and any other relevant information. And don’t forget to thank them for their help. After all, you never know when you might need their help again.
Remember, the most important thing is to stay calm and focused. With a little bit of preparation and a lot of teamwork, you’ll be able to find your child and bring them home safely.
Teaching Safety Skills
Teaching safety skills to an autistic child can be daunting, but with the right approach and a little creativity, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for both the child and the caregiver. In this section, we will explore some effective strategies for teaching safety skills to autistic children.
Role-Play the Runaway Scenario
One effective way to teach safety skills to an autistic child is through role-playing. Role-playing allows the child to practice safety skills in a safe and controlled environment. For example, the caregiver can pretend to be a stranger, and the child can practice saying “no” and running away. This helps the child learn what to do in case they encounter a stranger in real life.
Safe Spaces and How to Spot Them
Another important safety skill for autistic children is identifying safe spaces. Caregivers can teach children to identify safe spaces such as police stations, fire stations, and hospitals. They can also teach children how to spot safe people, such as police officers and firefighters, using visual aids such as pictures and videos.
The Buddy System Ballet
The buddy system is a tried and true method for keeping children safe. Caregivers can teach an autistic child the importance of the buddy system and how to choose a trusted buddy. They can also practice the buddy system by going on walks or outings with the child and their buddy. This teaches the child how to stay safe and helps them develop social skills.
Documentation and Identification
Who says IDs have to be boring? Your child can show off their unique style with wearable IDs while staying safe. These IDs come in various designs, from colorful wristbands to cool dog tags. Some even have GPS tracking, so you can quickly locate your child if they wander off. Plus, they’re waterproof and durable, so you don’t have to worry about falling apart during playtime.
The Handy-Dandy Information Card
If your child isn’t a fan of wearing IDs, consider creating an information card. This card should include your child’s name, a recent photo, and important medical information. You can laminate it and attach it to their backpack, clothing, or even their shoelaces. That way, if your child wanders, anyone who finds them can quickly identify them and contact you.
Documentation and identification are crucial to keeping your child safe. Wearable IDs or information cards can ensure that your child is easily identifiable and that anyone who finds them can quickly contact you.
Community Networking
When it comes to keeping an eye on wandering children, it’s important to have a community alert network in place. This means getting to know your neighbors and local law enforcement and making sure they know about your child’s wandering tendencies. It’s also a good idea to create a system of alerts, such as a phone tree or text message group, so everyone in the network can be notified quickly if your child goes missing.
Educating the Locals Without Boring Them
It’s important to educate your community about autism and wandering, but let’s face it, not everyone wants to sit through a lecture. Instead, try to make it fun and engaging. For example, you could organize a community scavenger hunt where participants have to find hidden items while learning about autism and wandering safety. Or, you could host a bake sale and use the proceeds to fund wandering prevention programs in your community.
Remember, it takes a village to keep a wandering child safe. By creating an alert network and educating your community in a fun and engaging way, you can help ensure that your child stays safe and secure.
