True or false: Children with autism may wander or seek water when distressed.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in rural areas
• D. Only if not supervised.

Answer: (A)

Wandering and elopement are recognized safety concerns for many children with autism, especially when they’re distressed or overwhelmed. In those moments, some children may seek out calming stimuli or try to escape uncomfortable situations, which can include movement toward water or simply wandering away. Because distress can trigger this behavior in a variety of environments—home, school, or out in the community—it isn’t limited to rural areas or to times when a child isn’t supervised. So the statement is true.

To help keep children safe, caregivers often plan with safety measures like securing water sources, installing door alarms, using identification, and coordinating safety plans with families and schools.