For many, summer vacation comes with fun family travel plans. When travelling with a child on the spectrum, it’s important to plan ahead to make the vacation an enjoyable experience. Consider these tips when planning your vacation.
Location
Once you have decided on the travel destination, try calling your hotels, theme parks and flights to see if they offer convenient services and special accommodations for children with autism.
Questions to ask:
- Do you have sensory friendly accommodations?
- Can you provide resources to meet my family’s needs?
- Is there roaming security here?
- Where in the park can we go to regroup and find a quiet spot?
- May need to ask about early check ins or late check outs or special menus if your child has dietary restrictions.
Sensory friendly areas
The new places, noises and crowds can be overwhelming for a child with autism. Keep in mind what may be challenging for children with autism and have a plan for an exit strategy if needed. Changes in routines and environments. More and more places, such as airports, theme parks, and family destinations are opening sensory friendly spaces for children and their families.
Establishing a routine
Changes in routines may be difficult for some children. Try keeping a routine as predictable as much as possible such as the same mealtime or bedtime routines. Bring along books, toys or other familiar items they use in their routines at home to help a child with a routine in a new environment.
Preparing for travel
You can help prepare children for vacation by showing them what to expect and when. Whether you’re going to the beach or Disney World, try showing your child pictures or videos of your final destination or pictures from past vacations. Using calendars and daily written or picture schedules can help children “see” the next activity and may help with smoother transitions. Schedules also give parents and caregivers an opportunity to discuss expectations with their child.
Be sure to praise your child when they are doing well. By giving positive feedback, the chances of your child repeating these good behaviors increase in the future. Celebrating the smallest of achievements or acts of good behavior can make a vacation more fun and successful for the whole family.
About Milestones Behavioral Services
Milestones Behavioral Services specializes in teaching children who may be behind in their language, behavior or social skills. Milestones use the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to make learning fun while helping students reach new heights. Their instructors are highly trained to work with children who display a variety of developmental needs.