As a parent of a child with autism, I find myself grappling with the delicate balance between ensuring the safety of my child and allowing him the freedom to explore and grow.
Safety is crucial for any child, but for children with autism, due to their unique sensory processing, communication difficulties, and unpredictable behaviors, ensuring their safety becomes a constant priority. As a parent, I have developed a keen awareness of potential hazards, both at home and in the outside world. (Watch my video here on where I share more of our story.)
- Creating a Safe Environment: At home, I’ve made numerous adjustments to create a safe space for my child. This includes childproofing, removing potential dangers, and establishing consistent routines to minimize anxiety and uncertainty. As our children grow and learn, they do master childproofing and other obstacles we create, so remember to adapt as needed.
- Social Interactions: I carefully consider the social settings my child is exposed to. While interactions with peers are vital for their growth, I ensure they are in controlled environments where understanding and support are available. On the flip side, stranger danger is not a thing for some children with autism. We talk about it often, what is a stranger, we run through scenarios and what to do, and we don’t leave our child unattended. It is just not an option for us.
- Communication: Establishing open communication with teachers, caregivers, and relatives has been instrumental in maintaining my child’s safety. Sharing crucial information about my child’s needs helps create a supportive network around them. It takes a village!
While safety is a top priority, I also recognize that my child deserves the opportunity to explore and experience the world just like any other child. Encouraging freedom is essential for his personal growth, independence, and self-confidence.
- Inclusive Activities: I actively seek out inclusive activities and groups where my son can participate and be supported. This not only allows him to experience new things but also fosters social connections with peers who have similar challenges.
- Gradual Exposure: Introducing new experiences in a controlled and gradual manner has been helpful in expanding my son’s comfort zone. The more he becomes familiar with the environment, the more the anxiety decreases and his willingness to participate typically increases.
- Fostering Independence: While it may be tempting to constantly intervene, I’ve learned to step back and give my son the chance to problem-solve and be independent whenever possible.
- Embracing Differences: Celebrating my son’s uniqueness and embracing his differences has been empowering. By accepting his strengths and challenges, I’ve learned to view his journey with autism as an opportunity for growth and learning, rather than a limitation.
The journey of balancing safety and freedom for a child with autism is not without its challenges. It requires constant evaluation, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt strategies as the child grows and changes. As a parent, I’ve come to realize that it’s essential to strike a balance that is unique to my son’s needs and strengths.
- Open-Mindedness: I’ve learned to remain open-minded and receptive to new approaches and ideas. Every child with autism is different, and what works for one may not work for another. I have learned something from every parent, therapist and teacher we have encountered. They are invaluable nuggets of goodness I would never learn on my own.
- Self-Care: Balancing safety and freedom can be emotionally draining. Taking care of my own well-being enables me to be a better parent and advocate for my child.
As a parent of a child with autism, I will always struggle to strike a balance between safety and freedom. I want my son to flourish, learn, and grow while being safeguarded from unnecessary risks. There will be ups and downs, but together we will create a balance that works best for my son.
