Autism: Elopement - Risks and Safety Tips

Did you know that research shows nearly half of all autistic children elope? When a child wanders away from a parent or caregiver or leaves the house without anyone knowing, it can be a truly frightening experience. Most importantly, it can be incredibly dangerous for the child.

Understanding the reasons behind elopement is essential. By gaining insights into why your child may be eloping, you can better address their needs and keep them out of harm's way. There are several reasons why autistic children might elope. One possible reason is sensory seeking or avoidance, where they may be seeking certain sensory experiences or trying to escape overwhelming sensory stimuli. Autistic children may also be trying to escape from unfamiliar or stressful social situations or seeking out familiar or preferred environments. Anxiety or a need for routine and predictability can also contribute to elopement behaviors.

Experts agree that some strategies to manage eloping behavior include using child-proof locks on doors and windows, ensuring your child knows how to swim, equipping your child with a tracking device, and creating a plan for when/if your child elopes from the house. Of course, the strategies you use will depend on your child's specific needs.

We know how challenging eloping can be. We reached out to a team of experts to write an article for parents on this topic. Dr. Mindy Scheithauer, Chelsea Rock, and Elizabeth Shea Buckley wrote an article on the risks of elopement and the safety steps parents can take to keep their children as safe as possible. They suggest that some common reasons autistic children elope are to avoid a loud setting, to avoid waiting in a line, and even to look for food.

If your child is a wanderer or has a tendency to elope, this article is an absolute must-have resource. It's packed with practical tips, expert advice, and insights that can make a significant difference in ensuring your child's safety.

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