Tip Time! How to travel with a child with autism

Traveling with an autistic child can be both exciting and challenging. Autistic children have unique needs and preferences that require careful planning and preparation in order to ensure a successful and stress-free trip. If you're planning to travel with your autistic child, read on!

Start with a plan. Before you begin your trip, it’s important to have a plan in place. This includes researching the destination, the mode of transportation, the accommodations, and the activities that you and your child will be participating in. Make sure to consider the specific needs and preferences of your child, such as sensory sensitivities and routine requirements. You can also consult with your child’s doctor, therapist or teacher for recommendations on how to best prepare for the trip.

Choose the "right" destination. The destination you choose for your trip can make all the difference. Consider the type of environment that your child will be comfortable in, such as a quiet and peaceful beach resort or a spacious park with plenty of open space. You may also want to consider a destination that is familiar to your child, such as a favorite theme park or a city that you’ve visited before.

Consider the type of transportation. The type of transportation you choose can also greatly impact your child’s experience. If your child has sensory sensitivities, flying may not be the best option as the noise and movement of the plane can be overwhelming. On the other hand, if your child is comfortable on trains or buses, this might be a more enjoyable and relaxing mode of transportation.

Plan your accommodations. When it comes to accommodations, it’s important to choose a place that is comfortable, safe and accessible for your child. This may mean booking a hotel room that is equipped with special amenities, such as a refrigerator and a microwave, or choosing a rental property that is equipped with safety features such as a pool fence. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the accommodations you choose are located near the activities and attractions that you plan to visit during your trip.

Prepare your child. Preparing your child for the trip is crucial. You may want to show them pictures or videos of your destination, and talk about what you will be doing during your trip. It’s also important to establish a routine for your child, such as meal times and bedtimes, so that they can feel comfortable and secure. You may also want to bring along familiar items, such as toys, books or a special blanket, to help your child feel at ease.

Plan for sensory needs. Autistic children often have sensory sensitivities, so it’s important to plan for these needs when traveling. This may mean bringing along noise-cancelling headphones, bringing a sensory toy, or bringing a pair of sunglasses to help your child feel more comfortable in bright or crowded environments.

Be prepared for emergencies. It’s important to be prepared for any emergency situations that may arise while traveling. Make sure to bring along important medical information, such as your child’s prescription medications and medical insurance information, in case of a medical emergency. Additionally, it’s important to have a plan in place in case of a lost or missing child, such as making sure that your child is wearing a name tag with your contact information and knowing the local emergency numbers.

Traveling with an autistic child can be a wonderful experience for both you and your child, but it does require careful planning and preparation.