Traveling with an autistic child is challenging

Your routine can follow you.

Traveling with your child can present unique challenges that require careful planning and consideration:

• Sensory Overload: Airports, train stations, and crowded tourist attractions can be overwhelming due to noise, bright lights, and large groups of people.

• Routine Disruption: Many children thrive on routine, and travel can disrupt their familiar schedules, leading to anxiety and behavioral issues.

• Communication Barriers: If the child has limited verbal communication skills, it can be challenging to express needs or discomfort while traveling.

• Unpredictable Situations: Travel often involves unexpected changes, such as delays or cancellations, which can be particularly distressing for autistic children.

• Social Interactions: Interacting with strangers or unfamiliar environments can be difficult, leading to stress for both the child and the family.

  
  

By assessing these challenges, families can better prepare and create a more enjoyable travel experience.

Below are some tips that we use during our countless travels.

• Countdown with Visuals – 10 Days Before we use a visual countdown to help our child get ready for the trip. Include familiar photos of us on a plane, at the beach, or playing in a hotel.

• Advance Preparation Plan and organize ahead of time to minimize stress. Have bags packed a day in advance.

• Reduce Screen Time 2 Days Prior We limit screen exposure and engage even more in outdoor activities to expend energy. When travel time comes, he'll enjoy having new and familiar games available on their screens.

• The Special Travel Bag! Prepare a unique bag filled with new games, books, and toys suited to your child’s interests. This has proven to be a big hit and a delightful surprise. (Consider Water wow books, mini magnetic puzzles, animal sticker books, ABC stickers for writing words, fidget toys etc.)

• Contact Travel Provider in Advance (Helpful for extra seating, transit, meals, and ensuring awareness)

Communicate your child’s needs to travel agencies or airlines for better assistance.

• Wear Identifying T-Shirts/Caps (Important for emergencies; people are more understanding when informed)

Use clothing or accessories to indicate your child’s needs, fostering understanding and safety.

• The Versatile Stroller (Yoyo fits even a 5-year-old) A stroller like the Yoyo offers comfort and mobility, even for older children.

• Create a Tent/Safe Zone with a Blanket Include a favorite book, headphones with calming music, ensuring a happy child and hands-free parent.

By trying our best and using all of the above we have had so many incredible travel and memories to share with our little one.

Wishing you a safe travel