When we go out with Max, we have our eyes on him every single second, and I am not exaggerating. But when we're in crowded places—amusement parks, the mall, events—I worry that that he'll get separated from us. We've used various IDs over the years, but I'm loving the new 411 Wristbands from Mabel's Labels, disposable but durable ID bracelets you can customize. I'm friendly with founder Julie Cole, a dynamic mom of six (including one son with autism), and she sent some for Max.
"Kids with autism are known wanderers, and it's a huge concern for parents," says Cole. "We were brainstorming around a possible solution that Mabel's Labels could provide, and the idea was born! We use them for family outings for all my kids—it gives them and me a sense of security. I also use them when the kids go to a friend's house for a playdate or to a birthday party. Then, if something happens and the family has to get in touch with me, my information is right there on my child."
You can choose from five designs (the above is Artsy Kid), with three lines of text. I wrote: "If lost, please call..."And then: "Mom's cell phone" and "Dad's cell phone," with our numbers. Max is not usually into wearing any sort of bracelet, but I put it on super-quick (you just peel off the adhesive and connect the ends) and he didn't mind. You can always attach them to a belt loop or ankle.
Thirty wristbands are $21 for a pack of 30, plus shipping; the company is offering a 30 percent discount to Love That Max readers, from now until midnight on Wednesday July 16, so the cost is $14.70. Just enter the code lovethatmax at checkout.
