A troubling incident at a Wichita public library has sparked outrage and renewed concern among families of individuals with disabilities, especially those raising children on the autism spectrum. Karen Wild, a Kansas mother and long-time library patron, says she was told to leave the women's restroom while accompanying her adult, nonverbal son—who is on the autism spectrum and has a seizure disorder.

Wild has brought her son, Ellis Dunville, to the central branch of the Wichita Public Library weekly for years without issue. But during a recent visit, she was approached by a male security guard who questioned her son’s presence in the restroom. Shortly after, a library staff member suggested they use the gender-neutral restroom—an option Wild said she hadn’t known existed.

Although staff didn’t cite Senate Bill 180 directly, the family believes the incident was influenced by the state’s newly enacted law, which restricts restroom access based on sex assigned at birth. Kansas became the first state to pass such sweeping legislation, and many families raising neurodivergent or disabled children are concerned about how these new rules will affect daily activities in public spaces.

When Public Policy Overlooks Disability Needs

This incident underscores the ongoing disconnect between blanket public policy and the complex realities of families caring for individuals with disabilities. For parents of nonverbal children—particularly older boys or men with autism—accompanying them in gendered public restrooms is often the safest and most practical solution.

Restroom choices aren’t just about preference; they’re about communication needs, physical safety, and medical monitoring. Laws that don't make space for these considerations leave families vulnerable to public shaming and exclusion, as seen in this case.

Parents shouldn't have to choose between following unclear public expectations and ensuring their child’s safety.

Support Beyond the Public Eye: How ABA Therapy Can Help

While we can't control every public policy, we can empower families with skills and strategies to navigate complex situations. That’s one reason our ABA therapy services in Kansas place such a strong focus on real-life skills and community readiness.

From helping nonverbal children learn alternative communication strategies to teaching daily living skills like bathroom routines, ABA programs can build confidence for both children and caregivers. We work closely with each family to understand their child’s needs, develop practical goals, and create meaningful change that extends far beyond the therapy room.

We’re Here to Support You—Wherever Life Takes You

Contact us today to learn how our ABA therapy services in Kansas can support your child’s development, independence, and safety. We offer personalized, virtual, and in-home therapy options tailored to your family's life. No matter your situation, we’re here to help you navigate it—with tools, strategies, and support that truly make a difference.