As a parent of an autistic child, ensuring their safety is always at the forefront of your mind. Whether it’s preventing wandering, navigating social interactions, or helping your child communicate, every decision you make revolves around their well-being. One concern many parents face is how to make their neighborhood safer for their children, especially when they may be prone to running off or wandering due to autism.
You might have heard about special road signs, like “Autistic Child Area” signs, and wondered if New Jersey offers a way to get one for your child’s safety. If you’re navigating this journey, it’s worth exploring available autism support resources in New Jersey to help advocate for your child’s safety and awareness in the community.
Can You Get an ‘Autistic Child Area’ Road Sign in New Jersey?
The short answer is that New Jersey doesn’t have an official program for installing “Autistic Child Area” road signs in residential neighborhoods. These types of signs are typically not recognized or maintained by local government authorities. While it’s a great idea to raise awareness and improve safety in specific areas where autistic children live, these kinds of signs are generally considered unofficial.
However, just because there isn’t a standardized program doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to make your child’s environment safer. Let’s explore other options to help keep your child safe while still raising awareness in your community.
Step 1: Contact Your Local Authorities
One of the first steps you can take is to reach out to your town’s municipal traffic department or public works division. While New Jersey doesn’t have a state-wide program for these signs, local governments may have their own procedures for requesting safety measures for children with special needs, including autism.
You might be able to work with your local authorities to install a sign or take other safety measures in your neighborhood. They may also consider installing additional signage, such as warnings for parents and drivers about the presence of children in the area.
What to do:
- Contact your local traffic or public works department.
- Ask about the process of requesting a safety sign or measures specific to autistic children.
- Inquire about other community initiatives for autism awareness or safety.
This step can open the door to community support and potentially lead to an increased focus on safety.
Step 2: Consider Vehicle Identification Options
While road signs specifically for autistic children aren’t common, New Jersey offers a valuable program that can help promote safety during travel: the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or communication disorder identification on your driver’s license or non-driver ID.
This identification allows law enforcement officers to be aware of your child’s condition and may be especially helpful if your child has trouble communicating, especially during an emergency. The notation on your ID helps ensure officers are more patient and understanding when interacting with your child.
What to do:
- Submit the appropriate documentation to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC).
- Request an autism or communication disorder identification for your driver’s license or non-driver ID.
- This notation can help improve communication during potentially stressful situations, such as a traffic stop or emergency.
You can find the forms and more information about this process on the New Jersey MVC website.
Step 3: Disability Parking Placards and License Plates
Another practical safety measure that can make life easier for families with autistic children is disability parking. While this is more focused on mobility challenges, it can be a crucial aspect of your child’s well-being, especially if they have difficulty walking long distances or navigating large public spaces.
New Jersey offers disability parking placards and license plates, which provide easier access to parking spaces that are closer to entrances and have fewer obstacles. If your child struggles with mobility or sensory overload in crowded places, these options can help reduce the stress of navigating parking lots and public areas.
What to do:
- Complete the SP-41 form (available on the New Jersey MVC website) and have a healthcare provider certify your child’s condition.
- Apply for a disability parking placard or license plate.
- Submit the application to the New Jersey MVC for approval.
This program is available to any New Jersey resident who qualifies, including those with children who have autism-related mobility challenges.
Step 4: Advocate for Community Awareness
While an official autism road sign may not be possible, advocating for autism awareness in your community can have a positive impact. By raising awareness and educating neighbors, schools, and local organizations, you can foster a more inclusive environment that promotes understanding and safety for autistic children.
What you can do:
- Work with local autism organizations in NJ such as Autism New Jersey or POAC Autism Services to raise awareness in your town.
- Advocate for community events or initiatives that focus on autism awareness and support.
- Encourage schools, libraries, and local businesses to participate in autism-friendly programs.
Consider also organizing a neighborhood event or awareness campaign to spread information about autism and promote safety measures, like alerting drivers to watch for children who might wander. The more you engage with your community, the more likely it is that others will understand and help keep your child safe.
Step 5: Other Safety Measures
While road signs specifically for autistic children may not be available, there are other steps you can take to enhance your child’s safety:
- Identification: Have your child wear identification, such as a bracelet or ID tag with your contact information and your child’s diagnosis, in case they wander or get lost.
- GPS Tracking Devices: Consider using a GPS tracking device or a wearable GPS tracker for your child, especially if wandering is a concern. Many devices are designed to be discreet and can help you locate your child quickly if they go missing.
- Safe Home Environment: Ensure your home has locks or alarms that can alert you if your child opens a door and exits the house unsupervised.
While New Jersey may not have an official “Autistic Child Area” road sign program, there are plenty of ways you can enhance your child’s safety and raise awareness. By contacting local authorities, exploring vehicle identification options, utilizing parking programs, and advocating for community awareness, you can help create a safer environment for your child. Additionally, taking steps like using identification tools and GPS tracking devices can provide extra peace of mind.
At True Progress Therapy, we know how important safety is for children with autism—and we’re here to support families like yours every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for guidance on advocacy or need personalized ABA therapy services, our experienced team in New Jersey is ready to help.
Contact us today to learn more about our compassionate, evidence-based support for your child’s growth and well-being.
FAQs
Can I request an autistic child road sign in New Jersey?
New Jersey does not offer an official state program for “Autistic Child Area” road signs, but some local municipalities may approve them on a case-by-case basis.
Are there other ways to improve safety if I can’t get a road sign?
Yes! You can work with your local traffic department, use ID tools, consider GPS trackers, and advocate for community awareness.
How can I promote autism safety and awareness in my neighborhood?
Contact local autism organizations, start awareness campaigns, or encourage local officials to consider traffic safety solutions for autistic children.
Sources:
- https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicles/disability.htm
- https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/news/pressreleases/2023/approved/20230515.shtml
- https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/vehicles/SP-41.pdf
- https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/news/pressreleases/2023/approved/20230515.shtml
- https://njbikeped.org/complete-streets-asd-idd/