Autism Wandering | Teaching Autism Safety Questions

One of the most common fears among parents of children with autism is the possibility that their child might wander off and not know how to get help or find their way home. It’s a scary situation, and preparation is key. As part of ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis), teaching critical safety skills—such as how to respond to basic identifying questions—can make a real difference in an emergency.

If your child were to get separated from you, would they be able to answer these questions?

• What’s your name?

• Where do you live?

• What’s your phone number?

• What are your parents’ names?

For many children with autism, answering these questions isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. But with the right strategies rooted in applied behavior analysis, these life-saving responses can be taught and practiced regularly.

Teaching Safety Questions to Verbal Children

If your child is verbal, there are multiple ABA-based techniques you can use to teach identifying information:

1. Prompting and Fading

Start by asking the question and immediately providing the correct answer. For example, say, “What’s your name?” and then answer, “Phil.” Praise your child when they repeat it.

Over time, fade the prompt. Instead of saying the full name, offer a partial prompt (e.g., “What’s your name? Ph—”) and let your child finish. Eventually, they’ll answer independently.

2. Textual Prompts

Write your child’s name on a flashcard and use it as a visual cue. Show the card while asking, “What’s your name?” Then, reinforce the correct response. Repetition and consistency are key principles in applied behavior analysis, helping to strengthen memory and language association.

Teaching Safety Questions to Nonverbal Children

If your child is nonverbal, there are still highly effective ways to teach these safety skills using ABA therapy strategies and assistive tools:

1. ID Bracelets and Charms

Personalized ID bracelets or backpack charms with your child’s name, address, and emergency contact information can help first responders or helpful adults identify your child. Practice with your child how and when to show the bracelet or charm when asked for their name or when they need help.

2. Augmentative Communication Devices

If your child uses an iPad or speech-generating device, program it with quick-access buttons for their name, address, and phone number. Teach them how to navigate to these responses when prompted. Practicing these responses regularly during play or routines can reinforce the skill.

3. Writing and Typing

For children who can write or type, you can practice the safety questions by having them write their name, address, or parents’ names in response to questions. This can be especially effective for older children or those with strong motor planning skills.

Why These Skills Matter

Wandering is a serious concern for many families, especially those raising children on the autism spectrum. According to the National Autism Association, nearly half of children with autism attempt to wander or elope from safe environments. Ensuring your child can answer—or communicate—basic safety questions can be life-saving.

Through ABA, therapists and parents can break down these complex skills into manageable, teachable steps. Whether your child is verbal or nonverbal, there’s a way to help them build the skills they need to stay safe and find help when needed.