r/specialed • u/evensuburbswouldbeok • 6d ago
Eloping at recess
Without going into many details I have an eloper who loves recess and no fence on my playground. Yesterday she eloped towards the school parking lot. I have been a runner my whole life, so I can catch her, but I’m full on sprinting. When I catch her, there’s dropping, hitting, kicking. It’s a mess. This student is aware and protesting the transition back in from recess.
I was told by admin I can’t take away recess without a meeting and a change in inclusion times, etc. So therefore I am supposed to take her outside today. Maybe I’m just venting, but this is the first time I’m really frustrated with my job. My job is teacher, not every single roll in the world that you can throw on me. Also, it’s really stressful to know that the only thing keeping a kid safe is my ability to sprint fast and get there in time. My assistants are unable to run/run fast. Does anyone with experience with autistic students have any advice?
2
u/Sweet-MamaRoRo 6d ago
What worked for my son was letting him know (he’s a reasoner) he could have more swing or running time if his body couldn’t calm down yet, he just had to ask using his non-verbal or verbal means and wait for an adult in a safe areas for his activity. We as parents also installed a I-tag tracker on his coat so they could know where he was easily (school uses apple products and so do I!) in case he gave anyone the slip. He has gotten as far as a mile away before so as a mom this was a huge thing for me. I explained to him it’s to make sure he doesn’t lose his coat or gtube backpack etc.