Safety

As autism parents, we know that safety is very important for autism kiddos. It is a key factor that a lot of people don’t know that we as autism parents struggle with. Yeah, sure you hear people say that their kids “wander off, they’re kids,” but it is different for OUR kids. We have children that run off ALL THE TIME due to something triggering them, something that interests them, and also they just plain feel like running off. As an autism mom with a child that is an eloper, I have dealt with my son running off and the police being called, I have dealt with my child running off in the community while at the store, at the mall, or at the park, and I have also dealt with my child running off at home, in our apartment complex. It is one of the most stressful things to deal with, so I feel your pain. That’s why I have come up with a list of items that I personally use, and they tend to help me. So, a lot of autistic individuals tend to elope outside of the home, a lot of the times because there are no restrictions. I wouldn’t recommend something I don’t personally use. 

Door alarm: First off, I’m going to tell you, this alarm is very LOUD, it is almost deafening, so just be cautious when you stick it to your wall. I personally have this and I’ve had neighbors ask me what that was lol. 

Window locks: This is by far some of the best window locks I have purchased. Yes, I also have this installed on my windows as well. They are metal locks, and they come with a screw to screw into windows. Be advised, these locks are for horizontal windows, not vertical closing windows. (I have windows that slide from side to side.)

Doorknob lock: I personally use this doorknob lock. I will be completely honest and say it can be a bit of an inconvenience to use this because you have to unlock it with a key to open your door, but I’ve gotten so used to it. I rather take extra precaution than have a missing child, so take that how you want.

Safety leash: I use this leash on my son. I know that sounds so bad to say, but hey, anything for safety, right? I don’t care what anyone thinks. I personally think the harnesses are better to keep your child from running off, but they are difficult to put together so I prefer the safety leashes with locks.