Fostering Home Safety

How to Create an Autism-Friendly Environment for Children

Contributed by Jenny Wise from Special Home Educator

Our homes can be the safest places we know. However, for children on the spectrum, they may contain stimuli that can be overwhelming, or hazards that are not seen as dangerous by inquisitive little ones. Here are ways you can make your home both comfortable and safe for your child.

Home Safety​​

An environment that promotes safety for a spectrum child is mostly about common sense. Autistic children can be inquisitive, and they may not appreciate the dangers of everyday objects. Make sure hazards such as chemicals, medications and sharp objects are not accessible, and use childproof latching liberally. Go through your home and survey it from the perspective of your child. Address anything potentially harmful such as unplugging devices from toasters to hair dryers. Secure furniture and large electronics to prevent injury should your little one investigate them. 

Try to minimize stress brought on by surroundings as this can itself cause both danger and discomfort. Keep your home clutter-free and well-organized with an emphasis on roominess, as tight spaces and mess can be overwhelming to an ASD child.

Prevent Wandering

Flight is an issue that can be a concern for parents. While these worries may be relaxed in the safety of the home, precautions must be taken. If you have not already, examine the locks on your home's doors and windows. You may find that deadbolts and extra locks are necessary. It is a good idea to avoid placing furniture near windows or other exit points to discourage any escape attempts. Conversely, you might utilize furniture strategically to impede escapes if they have shown a tendency to follow particular routes. ​

Baby gates offer another layer of protection. Their versatility can allow gates to both keep your child away from areas that are unsafe, but also prevent unwanted wandering, such as from their bedroom. Gates and locks are effective, but alarms may still be necessary. Place them in areas of flight risk so that they can alert you whenever something is opened without authorization

Consider Service Dogs

Dogs can be wonderful companions for children, able to show a tenderness that often belies their size. For kids on the spectrum, dogs can be a surprising catalyst for positive behavioral development. Their presence can comfort an ASD child, but they can also aid in valuable socialization. Service dogs can help fend off wandering and are trained to have a calm temperament that could de-escalate situations where there is overstimulation. Before committing to a service dog, look into what breed of dog would be most practical for you. Recommended breeds can range from the staple Labrador Retriever to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, but types may depend upon your chosen organization.

Service dogs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, meaning they can accompany your little one to places as diverse as buses and restaurants. They can be an expensive commitment, however, organizations specializing in providing autism service dogs may offer advice on grants or fundraising.  Find out more about financing a service dog here. 

Calm Space

Children on the spectrum often have particular sensory needs. Yet, there is always the risk of overstimulation. When this happens, it can be distressing for ASD children, and may provoke potentially harmful reactions. Creating a space where they can withdraw and disengage can offer a solution as a form of stress management. It allows a child to refocus their energy in a positive way that may stabilize any downturn in mood. Remember, this must not be a place for punishment. Instead, make use of familiar items such as toys and stuffed animals to nurture comfort and security. Supplement them with calming stimuli.

Decorate the walls in soothing colors and patterns. Use sounds and textures that you know they respond positively to. Make this their space, a place where they can feel at their most comfortable, and where they can explore their senses at a pace that suits them.
 
There is no single template out there that is guaranteed to work with all kids. After all, ASD children have their own unique needs and sensitivities. Regardless, there is plenty you can do to make your home a sanctuary where wandering and hazards are guarded against.

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