10 Traveling Tips for Children with Autism
Aug 05, 2016
Dear Sisters in Christ,
These past few weeks I did a bit of traveling with my children, which is always an adventure since two of them are on the autism spectrum. So, you may be wondering, Tamara, how do you navigate traveling with kids on the autism spectrum?
So I thought I'd share these 10 tips so hopefully we can each enjoy the journey a little more while ensuring our children's comfort and happiness.
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Bring Their Favorite Toys: Pack a variety of your child's favorite toys and distractions for the journey, ensuring you have ample options to keep them content during your travels.
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Stick to Their Normal Schedule: Maintain a consistent routine and schedule, even while on the road, by bringing along familiar activities and incorporating them into your travel plans.
KJV Reference: "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." - 1 Corinthians 14:33
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Bring Things to Help Them Sleep Well: For better sleep during travel, consider using supplements like Melatonin and bring along your child's pillow and blanket to replicate their familiar bedtime environment.
KJV Reference: "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet." - Proverbs 3:24
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Bring Their Favorite Device: Carry their preferred devices like an iPad or tablet, which can serve as an effective distraction and entertainment tool, even while exploring national parks.
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Get a Free National Parks Access Pass: Explore the option of obtaining a free National Parks Access Pass for families with permanent disabilities like autism, making visits to these parks more accessible.
KJV Reference: "And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest..." - Genesis 28:15
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Use a Visual Schedule for Travel: Employ a visual schedule to help children with autism understand and anticipate changes in their daily routines, easing their transitions during the journey.
KJV Reference: "But let all things be done decently and in order." - 1 Corinthians 14:40
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Travel with Their Favorite Foods: Carry some of your child's favorite foods to motivate and reward them, ensuring their dietary preferences are accommodated while traveling.
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Bring Headphones & Avoid Crowds: Pack headphones to manage noise sensitivity and plan visits to less crowded places to make your trips more enjoyable for children on the autism spectrum.
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Contact Information: To ensure your child's safety, have their contact information and your name on them in case they wander off during crowded outings, making it easier to reunite with them. I have used a lanyard with a piece of paper in it as well as a piece of tape on the back of their shirt.
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Be Flexible: Flexibility is key when traveling with an autistic child. Be prepared to adjust your plans and give them time for their regular routines to ensure a smoother journey.
KJV Reference: "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." - James 3:17
Conclusion: Embrace the journey with your child on the autism spectrum using these 10 tips, ensuring a pleasant and memorable adventure. Traveling is possible, even with autism – just prepare wisely.
With hope for God's blessings in your travels,
Tamara K. Anderson
