Many parents and caregivers of children with autism live with a constant concern: What if my child wanders off unexpectedly?
This behavior—commonly referred to as elopement—is one of the most stressful and potentially dangerous challenges families face.
Research conducted by Autism Speaks and the Interactive Autism Network revealed that nearly 49% of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) attempt to wander or run away at least once after the age of four. In comparison, only 11% of neurotypical siblings in the same age group show similar behavior.
This significant difference makes it clear that elopement is closely linked to autism—not parenting style.
So, what exactly is elopement, and why does it occur?
What Is Elopement in Autism?
Elopement refers to a situation where a child leaves a safe area or caregiver supervision without warning. This may include running out of the house, classroom, playground, or therapy center, putting the child at serious risk of injury or harm.
Why Do Children with Autism Elope?
Children with autism may elope for several reasons, most commonly related to communication challenges and sensory needs.
According to experienced ABA clinicians, elopement often occurs because a child does not yet have an effective way to express their wants or needs. Running away becomes a fast way to:
Escape overwhelming environments (noise, crowds, transitions)
Avoid demands or difficult tasks
Access preferred items, activities, or people
Seek sensory input (running, movement, exploration)
Engage in play, such as being chased
Rather than being “misbehavior,” elopement is usually a form of communication.
Understanding the Reason Behind Your Child’s Elopement
The most important step in reducing elopement is identifying why it happens.
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) to determine the root cause of the behavior.
Once the function is identified, families and therapists can work together to:
Teach safer, more appropriate ways to communicate needs
Reduce triggers that lead to elopement
Create a safer and more structured environment
Early intervention is key. When addressed properly, elopement behaviors can be significantly reduced over time.
How ABA Therapy Helps Reduce Elopement
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on teaching meaningful life skills while reducing unsafe behaviors.
At AdTherapy, our ABA team:
Conducts in-depth functional assessments
Identifies what motivates the child to elope
Teaches replacement behaviors (asking for help, requesting a break, requesting attention)
Modifies the environment to increase safety
Uses positive reinforcement to encourage safe behavior
For example, if a child elopes to gain attention or play, we teach them appropriate ways to request interaction instead of running away.
Every ABA therapy plan at Advance Therapy is individualized because no two children are motivated by the same factors.
Practical Safety Tips to Prevent Elopement
Preparation plays a critical role in keeping children safe. Parents can take the following steps:
Everyday Prevention Strategies
Supervise closely and know your child’s location at all times
Praise and reward safe behavior consistently
Install child safety locks on doors and windows
Use door and window alarms
Consider wearable GPS tracking devices
Emergency Preparedness
Keep updated photos and essential information about your child
Document communication abilities, calming strategies, and favorite locations
Share this information with trusted caregivers, neighbors, and schools
Teach your child their name, caregiver name, and phone number
If verbal communication is limited, ensure identification information is carried at all times
Being proactive can make a life-saving difference.
Start ABA Therapy with AdTherapy
Whether your child has recently been diagnosed with autism or you’re seeking a more structured therapy program, Advance Therapy is here to help.
Our compassionate ABA professionals design therapy programs tailored to your child’s unique strengths, needs, and goals. Each child begins with a comprehensive assessment conducted by a licensed BCBA to ensure the most effective treatment approach.
Call us today to speak with our Care Team
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Together, we help children build communication skills, stay safe, and thrive—one step at a time.