Autism and House Hunting

June 27, 2010July 19, 2017 Kim Cristo

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.

———————
How do you define a safe home?

Image Source