Behavior Analysis Center for Autism - BACA

BACA provides ABA therapy to help children with autism.

autism safety

Why Wandering Is a Serious Risk for Kids With Autism, Especially in Summer 

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 Clinically Reviewed by: Christine Brody, M.S., BCBA, Director of Training and Development

For many families raising a child with autism, one of the biggest fears is a child slipping away. That might mean walking out the front door, leaving the playground or disappearing into a crowd. This behavior, often called “wandering” or “elopement,” can happen in a matter of seconds. It’s more than stressful. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. 

Summer brings even more opportunities for this to happen. Routines shift, outings increase, and kids are often near water, one of the biggest safety hazards for children with autism. Understanding why wandering happens and how to prevent it can help families stay prepared and safe. 

What Is Wandering? 

Wandering happens when a child leaves a safe place without permission or supervision. This can include leaving home, school, a playground, or a caregiver in public. 

In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it’s especially common. A 2012 study in Pediatrics found that nearly half of children with autism had tried to wander or run away at least once after age 4. Of those, 26% were missing long enough to cause concern. 

The reasons vary. Some children may seek out a place they enjoy, such as water. Others may run to escape overwhelming sounds, sights, or situations. But no matter the cause, the risk is high. 

Why Summer Brings Added Risk 

Wandering can happen any time of year, but summer adds new layers of risk. Families are more likely to be out of their routines, exploring new places, or visiting pools, lakes, and beaches. New environments can be exciting, disorienting, or overstimulating for kids with autism. 

Water presents the greatest danger. According to the National Autism Association, accidental drowning accounted for 71% of all deaths resulting from wandering in children with autism under age 15. 

And it can happen fast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it takes as little as 20 seconds for a child to drown. 

Safety Strategies That Can Help 

Many families aren’t told about wandering risks when their child is first diagnosed. But there are proactive steps that can help reduce danger. 

Swim lessons are one of the most effective strategies. Some insurance plans may cover swim lessons for children with autism as part of behavioral treatment. Read more in Why Swimming and Water Play Benefit Kids with ASD. 

Families can also partner with a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) to teach safety skills. BCBAs can support children in tolerating wearable tracking devices, reducing bolting behaviors, and recognizing safe adults or “community helpers.” 

Other tools include: 

  • Personal ID wristbands or GPS trackers 
  • Secure fencing or home alarms 
  • Creating emergency plans with neighbors 
  • Registering with local police or Smart911.com, which lets families share medical or behavioral information that pops up for 911 dispatchers 

Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind 

Not every child with autism wanders. But for those who do, preparation can save lives. 

Summer outings should be fun, not stressful. These 4 Steps to Swim Safety for Your Child with Autism offer practical tips families can use right away. 

For more information on wandering and autism safety planning, visit the National Autism Association’s Big Red Safety Toolkit. 

How to Prepare Your Child with Autism for Interactions with Police

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Blaring lights, screeching sirens, looming strangers with shiny badges — encounters with police can bring an overload of sensory experiences.

Situations involving police officers can be stressful for everyone, but they can be especially challenging for children with autism. These interactions can be unpredictable and overwhelming, leading to anxiety and confusion.

With a little preparation, you can take some of the stress out of the situation. Here are six steps to help you and your child feel safe and calm.

1. Learn About Local Training

Call your local police department to ask if their officers receive training on autism. Many departments now have programs that focus on this and officers who are trained to handle situations involving people on the autism spectrum. This awareness can make a big difference in an emergency and make sure that officers understand how to approach and communicate with your child.

2. Register Your Child

Many police departments allow you to register your child with them. This means that if an officer encounters your child, they will already have important information about your child’s autism diagnosis. You can provide details about how your child communicates, any behaviors they might exhibit, and what helps to calm them. This makes the officer more prepared to handle the situation calmly and appropriately.

3. Use ID Cards or Bracelets

Have your child carry an ID card or wear a medic alert bracelet. These should include key details such as your child’s diagnosis, emergency contact information, and specific instructions that might help in an emergency.

For instance, it could say: “I have autism. I may not respond quickly. Please speak slowly.” These items can quickly alert police about your child’s needs and provide them with the information they need to assist effectively.

4. Practice Role-Playing

Regularly practice different scenarios where your child may interact with the police. Teach your child to stay still, keep their hands visible, and follow simple instructions like “stay here” or “show me your hands.”

Use clear and repetitive role-play to make these actions second nature. Practice in various settings, like home, school, or the park, to make sure your child knows how to react in different environments. This practice can reduce anxiety and improve your child’s ability to follow instructions during an actual encounter.

Teach your child to follow these tips from Pathfinders for Autism about interacting with law enforcement:

  • Always show your hands. Never put your hands in pockets or grab for something in a bag.
  • Stay in place — do not run.
  • Never attempt to touch or hug a police officer. The same goes for an officer’s dog.
  • Try not to stand too close to the officer. If you’re not sure about your distance, ask the officer, “Am I standing far enough from you?”
  • Do your best to tell the officer that you have autism.
  • If you don’t understand something, do your best to communicate that to the officer.

5. Read Social Stories and Picture Books

Social stories are simple, visual guides that explain social situations. Create or find social stories that describe what happens during police encounters. For example, a story might show pictures of a police officer talking to a child and the child staying calm and listening. Read these stories with your child regularly to familiarize them with the process. This helps children understand what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and make the situation less scary.

6. Use Crafts and Art to Talk About Racism and Ableism

Use age-appropriate games and crafts to discuss complex issues like racism and ableism. Explain that sometimes people might treat others unfairly because of their race or disability.

Teaching your child about these issues in a simple way can help them navigate social dynamics more confidently. For example, you might use dolls to act out scenarios where someone is treated unfairly and discuss why that’s wrong. Helping your child understand these issues can prepare them for real-life situations and teach them empathy and self-advocacy.

Regular practice and preparation can significantly help your child stay safe and calm during police encounters. Always seek guidance from your autism service provider if you need additional support.

By being proactive and prepared, you can make sure that your child has the skills and confidence to handle these situations effectively. Preparation not only helps in emergencies but also builds your child’s confidence and understanding of the world around them.