If you are a parent of a child with autism, you may have experienced your child attempting to wander off from you or from the area they should be staying. For example, some children with autism leave their home by going out the front door and walking down the street. Other children wander away from the play area at the park. Sometimes, children with ASD run out of the school building while at school. If you have experienced anything like this, you are not alone. This is referred to as elopement. Elopement is very common in children with autism spectrum disorder.
Rates of elopement in children with autism
The rates of elopement among children with autism are notably high. According to a study conducted by the Interactive Autism Network (IAN) in 2012, approximately 49% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) between the ages of 4 and 10 attempted to elope at least once. Here are some key findings from the study and other related research:
Prevalence – Nearly half (49%) of children with autism attempt to elope.
Age Group – The behavior is most common between the ages of 4 and 7, but it can occur at any age.
Comparison to Neurotypical Peers – Children with autism are four times more likely to wander off than their neurotypical peers.
Risk – Elopement can lead to dangerous situations, with reports of children being found in potentially life-threatening situations such as near traffic or bodies of water.
Stress on Families – Elopement behavior can cause significant stress and concern for families, impacting their quality of life.
These statistics highlight the importance of addressing elopement behaviors in children with autism through targeted interventions and safety measures.
What is elopement?
In the context of autism, elopement refers to the tendency of individuals, particularly children, to wander or run away from a safe, supervised environment. This behavior can be dangerous as it may lead to situations where the individual is at risk of injury or becoming lost. Elopement is a significant concern for caregivers and requires proactive measures to ensure the safety of the person with autism.
Factors that may contribute to elopement in individuals with autism include:
Sensory seeking behaviors – The individual might be seeking sensory stimulation from the environment.
Avoidance – They might be trying to escape a situation they find overwhelming or unpleasant.
Curiosity– Some might wander due to curiosity or a desire to explore.
Communication difficulties – Limited ability to communicate their needs or feelings might lead them to wander away.
How to address elopement in children with autism
It can be helpful to work with a healthcare provider or BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) to develop a comprehensive safety plan tailored to the individual’s needs. Although each child has their own needs, let’s review some general strategies that may be effective for many individuals with autism.
Reducing elopement in children with autism involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individual child’s needs and behaviors. Here are some effective approaches:
Behavioral Interventions:
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) – Identify the reasons behind the elopement behavior (e.g., seeking attention, avoiding a task, sensory needs). This is something a BCBA can help with.
Positive Reinforcement – Reward appropriate behaviors that replace the need to elope.
Visual Supports – Use visual schedules and social stories to help children understand boundaries and expectations.
Environmental Modifications:
Safety Locks and Alarms – Install locks and alarms on doors and windows to prevent unnoticed exits.
Fencing – Secure the home environment/the yard with fencing to create a safe play area.
Supervision:
Increased Monitoring – Ensure constant supervision, especially in new or unfamiliar environments.
Buddy System – Use a buddy system when in public places to ensure the child is always accompanied.
Communication Enhancements:
Communication Tools – Provide alternative communication methods (e.g., picture exchange communication systems, speech-generating devices) to help the child express their needs without eloping.
Teach Requesting – Teach the child to request breaks or other needs appropriately.
Safety Training:
Teach Safety Skills – Educate the child about safety rules and the importance of staying with caregivers.
Role-Playing – Practice scenarios where the child might be tempted to elope and teach them appropriate responses.
Identification and Tracking:
ID Bracelets or Tags – Ensure the child wears identification with contact information.
GPS Tracking Devices – Use GPS trackers that can alert caregivers if the child leaves a designated area.
Collaboration with Professionals:
Behavior Therapists – Work with behavior analysts or therapists to develop and implement behavior intervention plans.
School Support – Collaborate with teachers and school staff to create a safe environment and consistent strategies.
Community Resources:
Autism Organizations – Utilize resources and support from autism organizations that offer tools and training for managing elopement.
Local Authorities – Inform local authorities about the child’s tendencies and provide them with relevant information and contact details.
By combining these strategies, caregivers can create a comprehensive plan to reduce the risk of elopement and ensure the safety of children with autism.
