Traveling by Plane with an Autistic Child
Tips for Parents Traveling on an Airplane with a Child with Autism
Feb 28, 2009
Traveling by plane can be a challenge for many children and adults. A child with autism will experience this same challenge with an even greater intensity. Children with autism are very sensitive to different types of sounds. New surroundings will make them very uncomfortable. A change in their daily routine will create anxiety. However, even with all these obstacles, a lot of planning ahead can make it possible for most to travel anywhere.
Lowering Noise
If the child is very sensitive to loud noises, consider buying a good pair of noise reduction earphones. Using them beforehand, so they child can get used to how they feel when worn, is a good idea. The type of headset used should depend on what the child prefers. Some headsets wrap around the top of the head, while others wrap around in back of the neck. Furthermore, some earphones are placed inside the ears, while others completely cover the outer part of the ear. Trying out different styles is important.
A child who enjoys music can use a headset together with an iPod and listen to music while blocking out other sounds. Listening to some soft, soothing music can also help reduce anxiety.
Bring Entertainment and Necessities
Bringing lots of entertainment is important even if it is a short trip. One never knows if a plane will be delayed causing a short wait to become a much longer one. Many children with autism enjoy the visual stimulation provided by watching a movie. Having a portable DVD player with a couple of the child's favorite movies can keep them busy for a long time. This is especially helpful when traveling with toddlers.
Older children can bring along their handheld electronic games. Buying a new game just for the trip might be an even better idea. Also, if mom or dad are bringing along their laptops, consider having some games in the computer that their child can play.
Small toys, books, activity books, sticker books or coloring books are also helpful. Make sure to bring along a few pencils, crayons, markers and pens.
Also bring several pacifiers, extra diapers, wipes, extra bottles and baby food ( include plastic spoons) when traveling with young children. If the child has a favorite blankie or small softie don't leave home without it.
Bring Snacks Children Like
Nowadays snacks might not be given out on airplanes if the trip is a short one. Bringing extra food is a must. Also, some kids eat just to do something if bored or anxious. Some children find crunchy foods soothing and crave this specific type of food. Having a few small bags of potato chips, pretzels, or other crunchy items will calm the child down by providing sensory stimulation.
Chewing gum will also help unplug ears when the plane takes off or lands. Drinking some liquid also helps for this.
Comfortable Clothing
Wearing uncomfortable clothing can get anyone in a bad mood. Children with autism have different tactile sensitivities. Considering these is important when choosing what to wear. Usually stretchy, soft fabrics without uncomfortable zippers or buttons are best. Even if it is hot outside, the temperature on planes can get cold, so shorts and sleeveless shirts aren't recommended.
Talking About the Trip Beforehand
Disrupting a child's routine can cause extra anxiety, so talking about what will happen is usually best. There are many ways of explaining what will be happening. For example, try reading a book or better yet, making a visual storybook that shows pictures of airplanes, airports, suitcases and people traveling. Dolls or favorite characters can be used to illustrate sitting in an airplane and other activities. Pretend during play that you are taking a trip. If visiting relatives, showing the pictures and names of them beforehand is also helpful.
All the time spent preparing the child for the trip that he will take will be productive in the long run. It can help reduce any disruptive behaviors and certainly make the trip easier for everyone. Exposing children to new places and people is always important for their development. Actually, some children with autism that crave a lot of stimulation, enjoy traveling and behave better than at home because they are constantly entertained by the new sights. Following all these tips should help prepare parents who are thinking of traveling by plane with their children.
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