Vacationing with an Autistic Child

Tips for Traveling with Children with Special Needs

May 28, 2008 Venice Kichura

Just because your child is autistic doesn't mean you can take him (or her) on a family vacation. It just takes more planning and preparation. Here are some tips....

Traveling with young children on vacation can be stressful. If you’re the parent of a special needs child, it’s even more challenging. However, with sufficient planning, even autistic children can have a positive experience while vacationing with their parents. It just takes more advance preparation when traveling with child with special needs.

Choosing a Vacation Site

Disney World may be ideal for most kids, but if your autistic child panics at the sight of scary rides or is sensitive to sudden noises, it’s probably not a good idea. On the other hand, if you choose a quiet place such as Bok Gardens in Central Florida, your child having a possible meltdown in this tranquil sanctuary could only add more stress. Just make sure the type of vacation you select is conducive to the needs of your child.

Choosing a Good Time for Your Trip

Try not to go during peak seasons. If possible, go in late spring or early fall. Choose times of the day when an area is less crowded. For example, if you’re planning a trip to the beach, shoot for early morning or late afternoon when the beach isn’t as packed.

Prepare Your Child

Weeks before your trip, get out a large wall calendar and circle the day you leave for vacation. Talk about the trip each day and how everyone is preparing for it. Find children's books about going on vacation and read them several times, so your child knows what to expect.

Solicit/Hire Help

Perhaps there’s a responsible teen or another adult friend or family member that you could hire to help you with your child. Not only will this help ease the burden for you, but you’ll also be providing some summer work for a bored teenager.

Provide Structure

Autistic children, as well as most children with special needs, are used to routine and structure. You may want to just chill out on the beach with no planned activities. But, you need to include some structure in the trip so your child won’t have idle time to get restless. Also, don’t forget to pencil in some free time. Because most autistic children grow tired easily, you need to have some periods of just letting them hang loose and rest.

Check Out Services and Amenities

Check out websites for vacation spots such as Disney World to see what services are provided for disabled travelers. Call in advance and make arrangements so everyone will be ready for your child’s needs.

Prepare Family Friends and Family Members

Bring along favorite toys, security blankets, and other favorite things. This way your child will adjust to being in a new household. Have a plan of escape (if the need arises) where you take him away from everyone else to calm down. And, don’t forget his favorite treats as a reward for positive behavior.

If you’re visiting family or friends, clue them in on what to expect from your child. For instance, if your child is likely to have a meltdown when surrounded by family, warn your family that you may have to leave early. Then, just go. Don’t worry about what others think. They haven’t walked in your shoes.

Take a Vacation Away from Your Kids

Once home, you may need to get away for your own vacation. Let’s face it. If you’re the parent of a special needs child you need some time away from your child. If possible, arrange for someone who’s qualified to watch your child. so you can get away and get some needed rest and relaxation.

The copyright of the article Vacationing with an Autistic Child in Special Needs Parenting is owned by Venice Kichura. Permission to republish Vacationing with an Autistic Child in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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