Install Safe, Sensory-Friendly Park in Durand, MI
The Issue
I have twin autistic children who both experience elopement syndrome. Every visit to our local park turns into a nerve-wracking experience. Us parents find our heads on a constant swivel, chasing and redirecting them, desperately trying to prevent them from running off into danger. Their lack of danger awareness, combined with the inability to communicate verbally, makes park outings more stressful than fun. Like me, many other parents face this exhausting challenge.
Our city, Durand, Michigan, has an opportunity to make a significant impact on families like mine by creating a gated area within one of its existing parks. This specially designed space would cater to children with elopement syndrome and autism, providing a safe and enriching environment where they can play freely and we as parents can have some peace of mind.
Research highlights the alarming statistics surrounding autistic children. According to the National Autism Association, nearly half of children with autism engage in wandering behavior, and over 30% of those are non-verbal. Tragically, these behaviors often result in fatalities. Installing a secure, gated play area specifically designed with these children's needs in mind can prevent potential tragedies and give children the freedom to explore and enjoy childhood.
The introduction of sensory-friendly activities and safer playground structures—such as tunnel slides with clear tops for easy visibility and surfaces made from materials that can't be ingested—would transform our park into a haven rather than a hazard. These improvements ensure the park is not only inclusive but also a place where families like ours can build memories without the persistent fear of our children's safety.
We urge the city of Durand to consider this proposal seriously—not only as a step towards inclusivity but as a promise to protect some of its most vulnerable residents. Our children deserve the chance to play, explore, and grow in safety. Please sign this petition to support our mission in making our parks safer for everyone.
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The Issue
I have twin autistic children who both experience elopement syndrome. Every visit to our local park turns into a nerve-wracking experience. Us parents find our heads on a constant swivel, chasing and redirecting them, desperately trying to prevent them from running off into danger. Their lack of danger awareness, combined with the inability to communicate verbally, makes park outings more stressful than fun. Like me, many other parents face this exhausting challenge.
Our city, Durand, Michigan, has an opportunity to make a significant impact on families like mine by creating a gated area within one of its existing parks. This specially designed space would cater to children with elopement syndrome and autism, providing a safe and enriching environment where they can play freely and we as parents can have some peace of mind.
Research highlights the alarming statistics surrounding autistic children. According to the National Autism Association, nearly half of children with autism engage in wandering behavior, and over 30% of those are non-verbal. Tragically, these behaviors often result in fatalities. Installing a secure, gated play area specifically designed with these children's needs in mind can prevent potential tragedies and give children the freedom to explore and enjoy childhood.
The introduction of sensory-friendly activities and safer playground structures—such as tunnel slides with clear tops for easy visibility and surfaces made from materials that can't be ingested—would transform our park into a haven rather than a hazard. These improvements ensure the park is not only inclusive but also a place where families like ours can build memories without the persistent fear of our children's safety.
We urge the city of Durand to consider this proposal seriously—not only as a step towards inclusivity but as a promise to protect some of its most vulnerable residents. Our children deserve the chance to play, explore, and grow in safety. Please sign this petition to support our mission in making our parks safer for everyone.
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Petition created on July 7, 2025