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All Things Considered
Tom Crann, Josh Cobb and Lukas Levin

Education administrator speaks on importance of seeking resources for children with autism

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The Hopkins community is still grieving after 4-year-old Waeys Mohamed wandered away from home and drowned.

Mohamed had autism, and Sheletta Brundidge, a mother of three children who are also on the autism spectrum, held an event on Tuesday in Hopkins to give away interior door locks. She said the locks have been a lifesaver for her in situations where her children have tried to wander from home.

“When you have a child with special needs, you are always one blink away from an Amber Alert,” Brundidge said. “People just don't understand the complexity of having special needs children, and all the measures you have to do to keep them safe.”

Deeqaifraih Hussein oversees special education for Minneapolis Public schools and also has two kids on the spectrum. She’s working to improve support for children with disabilities in schools, especially for the Somali community.

“You are the first teacher of your son or daughter, and it is your best interest to advocate for your child to the extent possible,” Hussien said. “Please ask for resources and get your child into early intervention as soon as possible.”

Hussein spoke with MPR News host Tom Crann about the importance of safety, awareness and resources for families with children with autism.

Click play on the player above to listen to the conversation.