Helping families feel confident, prepared, and supported all summer long.
By Jaime Larry, MSW, LICSW, Director of QSP Services
As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, many of us look forward to more time spent outdoors. But for families of children with autism and others with increased safety awareness needs, summer also brings an increased risk of wandering and water-related incidents.
At MAC Midwest, we know that safety isn’t just a checklist , it’s a shared commitment. Last year, we witnessed several incidents involving children who eloped from their homes or therapy settings and encountered potentially dangerous situations near bodies of water. These experiences remind us how critical it is to keep safety front and center for the individuals we serve.
Understanding the Risk
Research shows that nearly 50% of children with autism engage in wandering or elopement behavior. Often, water is a major draw, which is why water safety remains one of the most important areas of focus for children on the spectrum.
That’s why MAC Midwest is working to equip families, caregivers, and staff with proactive tools, community resources, and consistent messaging to help prevent wandering and promote water safety.
Water Safety: What Families Should Know
If your child is drawn to water, you’re not alone. Many autistic children are naturally curious about water’s calming and sensory-rich qualities — but that curiosity can quickly turn dangerous.
Here are a few essential water safety practices for all families:
- Enroll in swim lessons early , adaptive programs are available across Minnesota (see below)
- Secure home pools and nearby water sources with fences, covers, and alarms
- Teach water boundaries using visuals or social stories about safe vs. unsafe water play
- Practice with clothes on , many children may fall into water fully clothed, so practice swimming that way too
- Use ID tags (like those included in the Big Red Safety Box) in case a child wanders
Having open conversations about water safety and incorporating it into therapy goals or home routines can significantly reduce risks.
Free Tools for Families: The Big Red Safety Box
One of the most accessible resources available is the Big Red Safety Box from the National Autism Association. This free kit includes:
- Door alarms
- STOP sign window clings
- Emergency toolkits
- Personalized ID tags for shoes or bracelets
- Visual supports and caregiver tips
We strongly encourage families to request one while supplies last. These small tools can make a life-saving difference.
More Resources to Explore
Here are additional guides and toolkits to support your family in preparing for and preventing wandering:
- Wandering Resources Toolkit , National Autism Association
- Minnesota Autism Safety Resources (Multi-Language)
- MAC Midwest Blog on Wandering Safety
These resources offer planning templates, GPS device information, translated safety handouts, and steps for preparing for emergencies.
Local Swim Programs for Children with Autism
Learning to swim is a powerful way to reduce risk and increase confidence around water. While many programs are concentrated in the Twin Cities metro, there are options throughout greater Minnesota as well:
- SwimPossible (Twin Cities Metro) – org
- Brooklyn Center Community Center – Sensory swim and 1:1 lessons
- Squid School MN – Mobile, autism-friendly swim instruction statewide
- Local Community Education Programs – Many rural school districts across Minnesota offer adaptive swim lessons through their community education departments. Reach out to your local district or community center to ask about inclusive programs.
- Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (Multiple Locations) – Offers adaptive recreation including swim programs in both metro and regional areas. Visit org for site-specific offerings.
- Atlantis Swim Academy (Burnsville) – Adaptive private lessons
- Rookery Activity Center (Lino Lakes) – Custom 1:1 adaptive instruction
- Phillips Aquatics Center (Minneapolis) – Free adaptive swim lessons
- YMCA of the North – Adaptive-friendly options at multiple locations – Foss Swim School , Offers private and small-group lessons designed to support children with autism in a calm, structured environment. Instructors are trained to meet a variety of needs and emphasize water safety and confidence. com
- Families in more remote areas – Families living outside major metro areas can often find adaptive swim lessons through local YMCAs, park and recreation departments, or community education programs. Contact your city or county to ask about inclusive swim opportunities and schedules.
Let’s Keep Safety a Shared Priority
We know that safety planning can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to walk with you, offer tools that work for your family, and create care plans that center both safety and empowerment.
Together, we can reduce risk, increase preparedness, and create safer communities for every learner.
If you have questions about wandering prevention, local swim programs, or safety tools, please reach out and we would be happy to provide resources.
