The Autumn Challenge for Autism Families
Fall is upon us. The crisp air, the colorful leaves, and the excitement of upcoming holidays create a magical atmosphere for many. Pumpkin patches buzz with laughter, football stadiums roar with cheers, and neighborhoods prepare for trick-or-treaters. But for families affected by autism, this festive season can bring unique challenges that most of us never consider.
Understanding Elopement: When Children Suddenly Disappear
Imagine watching a child sprint away from their parents at a crowded fall festival. Your first instinct might be judgment. “Those parents should keep a better eye on their child,” you might think. But what if that quick departure wasn’t misbehavior but rather a medical condition called elopement?
Nearly half of children with autism wander or “bolt” from safe places. This isn’t typical childhood wandering – it’s sudden, purposeful, and often dangerous. A child with autism might be overwhelmed by sensory stimulation at a busy event or fixated on something interesting in the distance. In seconds, they can disappear into a crowd, putting them at serious risk.
Beyond the Headlines: The Hershey Park Incident
The recent incident at Hershey Park illustrates this reality perfectly. When a young boy with autism was found wandering alone on the monorail track, social media erupted with harsh criticism of his parents. “They should lose custody!” “What kind of parent lets this happen?” Even other autism parents chimed in: “My child has autism too, but I never let them out of my sight.”
What the critics didn’t understand is that the parents had already reported their child missing. The search was underway. Autism elopement happens incredibly fast, even under vigilant supervision. The man who spotted the boy and helped him to safety wasn’t passing judgment – he was taking action. He became the difference between a scary close call and a potential tragedy.
Becoming the Compassionate Bystander
This fall, our communities need more people like him. We need bystanders who understand and choose compassion over criticism.
What does this compassion look like in practice? If you see a child having what appears to be a tantrum in a store, consider that it might be a sensory meltdown. Instead of staring or muttering about “bad parenting,” offer a kind smile to the struggling parent. Ask if there’s anything you can do to help – perhaps carry their shopping bags while they focus on their child or offer to bring their car closer to the entrance.
Supporting During Fall Activities
During trick-or-treating, be patient with children who may not say “trick or treat” or “thank you.” Some children with autism are non-verbal or struggle with social communication. Their silence isn’t rudeness – it’s their disability. A warm smile and candy in their bucket means everything to them and their watching parents.
If you witness a parent frantically searching for a child, don’t hesitate to offer help. Ask for a description and join the search rather than assuming negligence. Those first few minutes after a child with autism elopes are critical. Multiple eyes scanning different areas can make all the difference.
Making Sports Events More Inclusive
At football games or fall festivals, if you notice a family struggling with the noise and crowds, consider offering them your spot in a quieter area. If you happen to have noise-canceling headphones in your car, consider offering to loan them to a family whose child is covering their ears or showing signs of distress from the stadium noise. This simple gesture can transform what might have been an overwhelming experience into an enjoyable one for the whole family.
The Power of Understanding
Remember that parents of children with autism are often exhausted from constant vigilance. They don’t need our criticism – they need our support. They need communities that understand the challenges they face and step up to help without being asked.
Be the Change This Fall
This fall season, let’s be the change we want to see in our communities. Let’s create spaces where all families feel welcome, understood, and supported. Let’s be the bystanders who offer help instead of judgment, who extend kindness instead of criticism.
Want to make an even bigger impact? Join the Savannah and Goose Foundation’s “Safe Every Step” campaign at https://givebutter.com/safeeverystep. This initiative works to prevent wandering-related injuries and deaths in children with autism through education and safety equipment. You can also join us on November 15, 2025, at our Charity Bowling Night (https://givebutter.com/lQTdlF), where your participation directly supports families in need.
Because when it comes to supporting autism families, a little understanding goes a very long way.
