You Can Lessen Travel Stress, Hopebridge Says
Vacationing with a child with autism spectrum disorder can be challenging because travel takes them out of their comfort zones, routines, and familiar environments. Hopebridge Autism Therapy Center offers some ideas to ease the journey with a child on the autism spectrum.
Consider Working with a Specialized Travel Company
Some travel agents and agencies have received special training to assist with the needs of children with autism spectrum disorder and have received the designation of Certified Autism Travel Professional. Autism on the Seas offers special cruises in collaboration with well-known cruise lines. They provide autism-trained staff members on some cruises for a fee or provide a free cruise assistance package on other cruises. A Million Senses adapts vacations to the Greek Isles for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families.
Travel to Autism-Friendly Destinations
You can also lessen the stress by traveling to destinations that have worked hard to provide fun vacations that meet the needs of children on the autism spectrum. Some of these destinations are:
- Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA
- LEGOLAND Resort in Winter Haven, FL
- Disneyworld in Orlando, FL
- Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH
- Morgan’s Wonderland, San Antonio, Texas
Connect With TSA Ahead of Time
TSA will make special arrangements for those with developmental disabilities to undergo screening in less stressful ways. Be sure to allow plenty of time, talk with the TSA officer at the gate, and present medical documentation. You can also prepare your child for screening by watching a video with them beforehand. If your child is working with a therapist, their therapist can also offer some suggestions.
Be Prepared for Failed Plans
Many things fail to go as planned on a trip. For example, the flight can be delayed, or you can be stuck in a traffic jam. Be prepared with options such as
- Having a favorite video downloaded on your tablet
- Packing food and snacks
- Having silencing headphones
Be Safe
Some children with autism spectrum disorder wander away from caregivers. If your child does this, consult their therapist to ensure travel is appropriate. If their therapist thinks they can travel, you may still want to bring child-safe locks to secure doors or equip your child with a GPS-tracking device.
If your child is prone to aggression, you’ll also want to check to be sure travel is appropriate. If so, work with your child’s therapist to mitigate situations that might trigger aggressive behaviors.
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