Challenges Faced in Summer
Elopement Risks
When summer rolls around, kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are more likely to wander off, a behavior known as elopement. This is especially true when outdoor activities ramp up. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that nearly half of parents (49%) said their child with ASD tried to wander off at least once after turning four. Of those, 26% were missing long enough to cause worry. The more severe the autism, the higher the risk; a 10-point jump in the Social Responsiveness Scale means a 9% increase in wandering risk.
| Risk Factor | Percentage |
| Attempted to wander | 49% |
| Gone long enough to cause concern | 26% |
| At risk of drowning | 24% |
| At risk of injury in traffic | 65% |
Wandering can lead to dangerous situations, like running into traffic or falling into water. Using autism elopement tracking devices can help by giving real-time location updates.
Dangers of Wandering
Wandering is risky business, especially for kids with ASD. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says drowning is the top cause of death for kids aged 1 to 4 in the U.S., with about 4,000 accidental drownings each year. For kids with ASD, these drownings often happen in nearby water during the afternoon, usually because of escape behaviors.
| Danger | Statistic |
| Drowning (ages 1-4) | Leading cause of death |
| Annual accidental drowning deaths | 4,000 |
| Common drowning locations for ASD | Near residences |
Kids with autism and intellectual disabilities are also more likely to get lost or need help because they might not communicate well or react to stress like others do. This can make it hard for first responders to understand or help them properly.
While physical barriers are often used to prevent wandering, they’re not always practical in public places. That’s where technology comes in. GPS trackers and QR code ID systems can share important info with first responders, like health details, emergency contacts, and communication needs, to keep kids safe.
For more on the risks of wandering, check out our article on autism elopement risks. To learn about preventive tools like alarms, visit autism elopement alarms.
Keeping Kids Safe Around Pools
Keeping kids safe around pools is super important, especially for children with autism. When summer rolls around, the chances of wandering off and drowning go up. Knowing how to keep an eye on things and putting some smart water safety steps in place can help stop accidents and keep kids out of harm’s way.
Why Watching Matters
Watching over kids is the number one way to stop drowning, especially for those with autism. The CDC says drowning is the top cause of death for kids aged 1 to 4 in the U.S., with about 4,000 accidental drownings each year. For kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), these tragic events often happen in nearby water spots during the afternoon, usually because they wander off.
Parents and caregivers need to be on high alert when kids with autism are near water. This means pools, lakes, and even bathtubs. Having a “water watcher” who keeps an eye on the child at all times is a good idea. It’s also key to stay focused—no phones or chatting while on duty.
Smart Water Safety Tips
Putting some water safety tips into action can make a big difference for kids with autism around pools and other water spots. Here are some handy ideas:
- Put Up Barriers: Fences with gates that close and latch on their own can keep kids from getting into the pool area without an adult. Research shows these barriers are more common for stopping wandering than tech gadgets.
- Get Pool Alarms: Alarms can let you know if a child gets into the water without you knowing. You can put them on pool gates or have the child wear them as wristbands.
- Sign Up for Swim Lessons: Swimming lessons can teach kids with autism important water safety skills. Many places offer special programs for kids with ASD to help them feel more comfortable and capable in the water.
- Use Life Jackets: Make sure kids wear life jackets that fit well when they’re near or in the water. Life jackets add an extra layer of safety, especially for kids who aren’t strong swimmers.
- Be Ready for Emergencies: Parents and caregivers should know CPR and first aid to act fast if something goes wrong. Knowing CPR can save a child’s life while waiting for help to arrive.
By keeping a close watch and using these water safety tips, parents and caregivers can cut down the risk of drowning and create a safer space for kids with autism. Take a look at our resource on summer activities for autistic children to boost safety and fun during the summer.
Understanding Elopement
Elopement, or wandering, is a big worry for families with kids who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Getting a grip on how elopement affects families and finding ways to tackle this behavior is key to keeping kids with autism safe and sound.
Impact on Families
Elopement can really shake up families. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that nearly half of the parents surveyed (49%) said their child with ASD tried to wander off at least once after turning four. Out of those, 26% were gone long enough to cause a panic. The constant worry about their child wandering off can crank up stress and anxiety for parents and caregivers.
The dangers tied to elopement are no joke. The same study showed that 24% of kids who went missing were at risk of drowning, and 65% could get hurt in traffic. The severity of autism also plays a role; for every 10-point bump in the Social Responsiveness Scale, the risk of elopement jumped by 9%. This underscores the need for solid strategies and tools to prevent elopement and keep kids with autism safe.
Behavioral Analysis Strategies
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a real game-changer in tackling elopement in kids with autism. ABA therapy zeroes in on changing behaviors and offers practical ways to curb elopement and create a safer environment. ABA therapists kick things off by checking out what triggers elopement and gathering background info from family members.
Some key strategies in ABA therapy for elopement include:
- Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): Figuring out why the child is eloping, whether it’s for attention, to escape a situation, or to chase after something they like.
- Proactive Measures: Putting plans in place to stop elopement, like setting up structured routines, using visual aids, and tweaking the environment to cut down on triggers.
- Reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement to promote safe behaviors and discourage wandering. This might mean rewarding the child for staying put or following safety rules.
- Teaching Alternative Behaviors: Helping the child find other ways to express their needs or wants, which can lower the chances of elopement.
By understanding how elopement affects families and using behavioral analysis strategies, parents and caregivers can take steps to keep their kids with autism safe. Looking into autism elopement tracking devices can offer an extra layer of security for families worried about their child’s safety.
Tracking Devices for Safety
Tracking devices are a game-changer for keeping kids with autism safe, especially when summer rolls around and the chances of them wandering off skyrocket. Let’s check out two popular gadgets: Electronic Tracking Devices (ETDs) and AngelSense Wearables.
Electronic Tracking Devices (ETDs)
ETDs are like having a superhero sidekick that keeps tabs on kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by tracking their location in real-time. These nifty devices have been linked to improvements in all five measures of quality of life for kids with ASD who have a history of wandering. They can really ease the emotional rollercoaster that families go through when their child elopes.
| Measure of Quality of Life | Improvement |
| Safety | High |
| Emotional Well-being | Moderate |
| Social Interaction | Moderate |
| Independence | Low |
| Family Stress | High |
But, like anything good, ETDs come with their own set of challenges. The price tag, the hassle of using them, and the fact that not everyone knows about them can slow down their popularity.
AngelSense Wearables
AngelSense offers wearables that are comfy for kids and can be clipped onto their clothes or a special belt that only parents can remove. This adds an extra layer of security.
Key features of AngelSense Wearables include:
- Unknown Place Alert: Gives parents a heads-up if their child ends up somewhere unfamiliar, adding a safety net.
- 1-Way Voice: Lets parents listen in on what’s happening around their child, keeping tabs on their well-being.
| Feature | Description |
| Sensory-Friendly | Comfortable for kids with sensory sensitivities |
| Unknown Place Alert | Alerts parents to unfamiliar locations |
| 1-Way Voice | Allows parents to listen to surroundings |
AngelSense Wearables are a solid choice for parents looking for dependable tracking devices for their kids with autism.
By getting the scoop on these tracking devices, parents can make smart choices to boost the safety and happiness of their kids with autism.
Funding and Insurance Coverage
Coverage for Tracking Devices
Keeping kids with autism safe, especially when summer rolls around, is a big deal. That’s when the chances of them wandering off can spike. Luckily, there are ways to help families afford tracking devices, which are super handy for keeping tabs on their little ones.
In Maryland, the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) offers waivers like the Family Supports Waiver, Community Supports Waiver, and Community Pathways Waiver. These waivers help cover the cost of tracking devices as part of Assistive Technology Services. It’s all about making sure folks with autism can live safely and independently.
For those looking into GPS tracking gadgets, the Autism Waiver has got you covered for devices like the AngelSense watch. But heads up, Bluetooth-only devices like Apple AirTag, Tile, or SmartTag don’t make the cut for this funding.
Families can also dig into the Pathfinders for Autism provider database under Category>Grants and Funding Sources. It’s a treasure trove of info on grants and funding that can help with the cost of tracking devices and other essential supports.
Health Insurance Considerations
When it comes to health insurance, coverage for tracking devices can be a bit of a mixed bag. It really depends on your specific plan and provider. Some plans might cover the device and the subscription plan that goes with it. To figure out what’s covered, you’ll need the ICD-10-CM code Z91.83 for Wandering and the right CPT codes from the vendor.
| Insurance Considerations | Details |
| ICD-10-CM Code | Z91.83 for Wandering |
| CPT Codes | Provided by the vendor |
| Coverage | Varies by plan |
| Appeal Process | Request an appeal if coverage is denied |
If your insurance says no, don’t throw in the towel. You can ask for an appeal. This means sending in more paperwork and proof to show why the tracking device is crucial for the safety and well-being of the person with autism.
Keeping Kids Safe
Keeping kids with autism safe, especially those who might wander off, takes a bit of planning. Two big things to focus on are setting up routines and making changes around the house.
Routines That Work
Having a routine is super important for kids with autism. When they know what’s coming next, it can help them feel calm and less likely to wander off.
- Picture Schedules: Use pictures or symbols to show what’s happening each day. This helps kids know what to expect.
- Same Time, Every Day: Try to keep things like meals and playtime at the same time each day.
- Rewards and Praise: Give kids a pat on the back or a small reward when they stick to the routine. This makes them more likely to follow it and stay safe.
With practice and rewards, kids with autism can learn to stay safe and not wander off.
Making the Home Safe
Changing things around the house can make it safer for kids with autism. These tweaks can stop them from wandering and give them a safe place to be.
- Lock It Up: Put locks and alarms on doors and windows to stop kids from leaving without you knowing.
- Fences: Make sure your yard is fenced in so kids can’t wander off.
- Chill Zones: Set up spots in the house where kids can go if they’re feeling stressed.
- Signs and Markers: Use signs to show where it’s safe to go and where it’s not.
According to Pathfinders for Autism, these changes, along with keeping an eye on things, can really help keep kids with autism safe.
| What to Do | How It Helps |
| Picture Schedules | Shows kids what’s happening each day. |
| Same Time, Every Day | Keeps daily activities on track. |
| Rewards and Praise | Encourages kids to stick to routines. |
| Lock It Up | Stops unsupervised exits. |
| Fences | Keeps kids from wandering off. |
| Chill Zones | Gives kids a place to relax. |
| Signs and Markers | Shows safe and off-limits areas. |
By doing these things, parents and caregivers can make a safe and structured place for kids with autism.
SOURCES:
https://aidecanada.ca/resources/learn/asd-id-core-knowledge/considering-tracking-and-location-technologies-in-the-autism-and-intellectual-disability-community
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32576789/
https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/data-research/facts/index.html