Every month, like clockwork, I receive a notification from my son’s school informing me about their recent lockdown drill. While the message assures me it’s just a drill, I can’t shake off my anxiety. This recurring event serves as a stark reminder of how autism influences every aspect of my son’s life.
What truly terrifies me is the thought that during a lockdown, my son may not be safe—primarily due to his own actions. In these drills, teachers typically guide students into closets or restrooms, where they sit silently. However, my son, Max, tends to interpret these scenarios in a completely different way. Instead of recognizing the gravity of the situation, he often perceives it as a game—like a quirky version of hide-and-seek or a surprise party. He loudly whispers, urging everyone to “Be quiet!” without realizing that his own noise could put him and his classmates at risk.
This reality frustrates me. I despise that my son has to navigate this part of his educational experience. I’m deeply troubled by the fact that his autism and communication challenges might create additional safety concerns. If Max makes a sound, it could compromise the safety of everyone hiding alongside him. He doesn’t intend to cause harm, but that doesn’t change the potential consequences.
When I first learned about this from his teacher, it broke my heart. She seemed unfazed, and it appears Max isn’t the only child exhibiting this behavior. He lacks the understanding of the situation and doesn’t grasp that these drills are about protecting himself and others. I was assured that they would work on this skill, but part of me is angry that such realities exist in his life. Why must we worry about whether our children can maintain silence in potentially life-threatening situations? Shouldn’t the focus be on fostering independence and life skills instead of survival tactics?
I can only hope that I never have to confront the reality of such an event. Yet, every month, when that notification arrives, I’m reminded of this uneasy truth. I have no solutions, nor do I possess any suggestions. It’s simply another layer of complexity that comes with autism—a challenge that often goes unrecognized until it hits home.
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In summary, the anxiety surrounding lockdown drills for my autistic son highlights the unique challenges families face. While schools implement safety procedures, the impact on children with special needs can be profound, requiring additional understanding and support.