Every month, like clockwork, I receive a notification from my child’s school stating that they have conducted their routine lockdown drill. This message is meant to reassure me that it was merely a drill and that I need not worry.
Yet, I can’t help but worry. This serves as a stark reminder of how deeply my son’s autism influences every facet of his life. I feel an overwhelming fear that he may not be adequately protected during these lockdown scenarios, and the reason stems from his own behavior.
Typically, we hear about educators guiding their students into closets or restrooms, urging them to remain silent and still. However, my son reacts differently. He tends to vocalize—enthusiastically informing teachers, staff, and peers that a surprise is imminent. A blend of his autism and innocent perception leads him to believe they are engaging in a game of hide-and-seek or preparing for a fun surprise. He often whispers loudly, instructing everyone around him to “Be quiet!” yet fails to realize that he too must be silent to ensure his safety and that of others.
This situation pains me. I despise that this is a reality within his educational journey. The intersection of autism with his communication and cognitive challenges poses an additional safety risk for him and his classmates. If he inadvertently makes noise, it could compromise the safety of everyone hiding with him. His intentions are innocent, but the stakes are real.
When his teacher first brought this to my attention, my heart sank. She appeared unfazed, and it seems he is not alone in this behavior. He lacks understanding of the gravity of the situation and is oblivious to the fact that this drill is about protecting himself and others. I was assured they would work on this skill.
Part of me feels anger that he has to navigate such complexities. Why must this be a worry in our lives? Now, I am burdened with the thought that he could unintentionally reveal their hiding spot to someone with bad intentions. I always thought teaching life skills was about fostering independence, but now it also includes learning how to stay alive.
I sincerely hope that I never have to confront this grim reality, but the anxiety resurfaces every time I receive that monthly notification.
I don’t have a solution, nor do I possess any suggestions. This is just another layer of complexity that autism introduces, one that often goes unnoticed until it directly impacts your life. For related insights on navigating challenges in family settings, you can check out this article.
In conclusion, the intersection of my son’s autism and the realities of school lockdown drills presents unique challenges that evoke significant concern. These practices, intended for safety, transform into sources of anxiety for parents like me. Understanding and addressing these complexities is essential for creating a more secure environment for all children.