By Charlene Pinnock
No matter how much I prepare, how many locks I install, or how closely I watch—there’s always that lingering fear in the back of my mind: What if Marcus runs again?
Elopement—when a child wanders or runs off unexpectedly—is one of the scariest challenges I’ve faced as a mother of a child on the autism spectrum. And even with a fenced-in yard, baby locks, and alarms, Marcus still finds ways to outsmart them.
Because as he gets older, he’s not just growing—he’s learning how to navigate the world around him, even if that world is dangerous.
When people think of elopement, they imagine a child casually wandering down the street. But that’s not what it looks like when it’s your child.
For me, it’s turning my back for two minutes to stir the pot on the stove and realizing Marcus is gone.
It’s watching him pull a chair to the door, unlock it with focus and calm—while my heart races in panic.
It’s chasing after him barefoot, praying he doesn’t dart into the road.
Even with a fenced yard, he figures things out. He watches, remembers, adapts. And what worked to keep him safe yesterday might not work today.
What makes it even harder is that Marcus isn’t just running anywhere—he’s drawn to a specific neighbor’s house. Something there interests him. He doesn’t see danger; he sees comfort or fascination. But for me, it’s a constant worry. Because while I might know where he’s going, the path to get there isn’t safe.
Many children with autism elope because:
• They’re curious and don’t understand danger
• They’re drawn to water, traffic, or objects they love
• They’re overwhelmed and trying to escape sensory overload
• Or sometimes, they just want to go somewhere—and don’t realize they need permission
Marcus doesn’t always run to get away from me. Sometimes he’s chasing something that excites him. Sometimes, he just wants to go—without warning or explanation.
Elopement has forced me to think ahead in ways I never imagined. Here are some of the steps I’ve taken:
• Fencing the yard—but knowing it’s not foolproof
• Installing high locks and double locks on the doors
• Placing alarms and door chimes so I hear if anything opens
• Visual stop signs or red markers to show off-limits exits
• Teaching trusted neighbors what to do if they ever see Marcus alone
• Running safety drills and practicing “stop” commands with gestures
• Adding ID tags to his backpack and clothes
• And most importantly: AngelSense.
Marcus wears this GPS tracking device every time we go out—and even at school. It gives me real-time updates, alerts if he wanders, and lets me hear what’s happening around him. AngelSense gives me peace of mind when I can’t be right there with him.
And still… I stay alert. Because one clever move from Marcus can undo it all.
I know that not every parent has access to fences, door alarms, or GPS tracking devices like AngelSense. But even without those tools, you can still take steps to protect your child. Here are some things that may help, especially for families in Jamaica or other communities where resources are limited:
• Talk to your neighbors. Let them know your child is on the autism spectrum and may not understand danger. Most people want to help—you just have to let them know how. Ask them to contact you immediately if they ever see your child alone.
• Create a safe space outdoors. If fencing isn’t possible, consider using rope boundaries, chalk lines, or flower beds to create a “visual border” your child can learn to recognize.
• Use strong door locks—high and hidden. Install locks or latches out of your child’s reach, even if they’re homemade or improvised. A simple bolt lock placed high can make a big difference.
• Practice safety phrases and gestures. Use short, repeated words like “Stop,” “Stay here,” or “No road,” along with hand signals. Over time, repetition helps your child connect the words with action.
• Have a recent photo on hand. Keep updated pictures of your child, especially full-body photos in everyday clothes, in case you need to ask for help quickly.
• Mark your home with a sign. A simple paper on your gate or front door that says, “Child with autism lives here” can alert neighbors or emergency responders that someone may need special care.
• Role-play safe behaviors. Practice staying in the yard, walking safely, or stopping at the gate. Praise your child when they stay within boundaries—even small wins count.
Most importantly, don’t be ashamed or afraid to speak up. Autism is nothing to hide—and the more people who understand your child, the safer your child will be.
I dream of the day I can take a deep breath and not worry about whether Marcus will open a door and disappear. But for now, I accept that my job is to stay one step ahead—even as he keeps catching up.
Every door he opens, every fence he climbs, every quiet escape is a reminder that he’s growing, learning, and becoming more independent. And while that terrifies me, it also reminds me that he’s capable.
So I hold on tighter—not just to protect him—but to help him learn how to protect himself.
Because one day, I won’t be able to chase him.
And my prayer is that when that day comes, he won’t need me to.
My name is Charlene Pinnock**, and I’m the founder of *WeAre Autism*—a platform I created out of love for my son Marcus, who is on the autism spectrum. As a mother, advocate, and writer, I share educational articles based on my lived experiences, cultural background, and the everyday lessons I learn while raising a neurodivergent child. My goal is to support and empower other parents and caregivers, especially within the Jamaican community, by offering real stories, practical tips, and encouragement. You're not alone on this journey—and if no one else says it, I will: you're doing an amazing job.
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