Autism and House Hunting

June 27, 2010 Kim Cristo 220 Views 1 Comment 2 min read

We are house hunting. We have to be out of our current rental by July 31st because our landlords sold the house. I thought they’d have some trouble in this economy, but after a week on Craigslist, they sold it. They got a lot less than what they were asking for — but I am happy for them. And I wish we could have bought it. It is in a bad school district with a sub-standard autism program.

So we are moving again. We have to quickly find a home and get in a school district before Ava turns 2 1/2. We want to buy something this time. Yes, we want to be home-owners, but I so dread moving because I know Ava will be traumatized. She loves where she lives now. She finds comfort in her home. I hope she can adjust but I know it is difficult for kids on the spectrum.

However, after going to see about six houses last weekend, I realized how hard our search is going to be. Not only do we have to find an affordable home — even in this housing slump it is hard to find a house in our price range in a good school district, we have to find a school district with a good autism program or a district willing to send her to a private autism school or an out of district program. With all of NJ’s budget cuts in education, it will be hard to find a district that will send her to a private school.

We need to find a safe house, one that can be child-proofed for a special needs child with gross motor and sensory issues. I want a finished basement because I don’t want Ava to fall down steep steps or get hurt. We have to find a safe neighborhood. We have to find a house that is not close to a high traffic area. Our property has to have a fence. We can’t have ponds, lakes or creeks near our property. And our new home has to be in a nice, quiet neighborhood with conscientious neighbors. It is a tall order, I know. I also want an attached garage, central air, nice appliances and a family room for Ava’s therapy.

Ava is a “runner”. If there is an open space, she will run without abandon. Last week I took her out of the car and put her down. I turned my back for one second and she bolted down the street. Thankfully, we live in a cul-de-sac. But sometimes my neighbors speed down the hill and into their driveways like bats out of hell. I have to be so careful. We may get a bracelet for her to wear or a backpack with a leash. Oh I know it looks cruel, but I am so afraid for her! With all of the missing autistic children, you can’t be too careful.

I hope we find a new home within the next few weeks — and it is a safe haven for Ava.

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How do you define a safe home?

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