When they Wander: Understanding Autism and Elopement
From Full Spectrum Parent: Christian Autism Support | Special Needs Parenting | Faith & Autism Resources by Greg and Jessica Hurlbut and Christian Parenting
November 7, 2025 · 45 min · Season 1 · Episode 101
About this episode
This episode discusses the safety concerns of elopement in children on the autism spectrum and shares personal stories and strategies for parents.
The scariest day of my life was the afternoon my five-year-old daughter on the spectrum went missing. The police were notified, we gathered a search party to scour the area, and an hour later we found her in a neighbor’s home, rummaging through their cupboards and playing with their poodle. I wouldn’t wish the fear that overtook me in that hour on my worst enemy. Yet, nearly half of children on the autism spectrum attempt to elope—making wandering one of the top safety concerns for autism parents In this episode, we share our own personal stories, discuss reasons why children on the spectrum elope, and offer practical strategies to keep them safe. If you or a loved one is a parent of a child on the spectrum, you won’t want to miss this episode. Full Spectrum Parent is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
People in this episode
Hosts: Greg Hurlbut, Jessica Hurlbut
Topics covered
- autism
- elopement
- safety concerns
- parenting strategies
- personal stories
Keywords
- autism
- elopement
- safety
- parenting
- strategies
- personal stories
- Christian parenting
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Christian Parenting
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