Travel can be wonderful, enriching experiences for children with autism. When planning a trip, above all, just remember children like to know what to expect.
Plan the trip with your child to get him accustomed to unfamiliar settings and activities: this will help a lot!
- Preview the location with your child. Look at websites, brochures, and YouTube videos about the hotel and destinations you are going to visit. You can also use these resources to make picture cards and schedules.
- Consider train travel. I like the train because it doesn't involve the invasive security checks and you can walk around. And what kid with autism doesn't love trains? But sometimes you have to fly.
- Ask about special needs accommodations, if offered, e.g., at airports, theme parks, and hotels.
- Use picture cards and visual schedules. They are more important than ever in unfamiliar environments and during schedule and routine interrruptions.
- Stay on schedule. Try to stick to normal bedtimes and mealtimes.
- Go a bit slower. Be prepared to take things slow, and to do fewer activities.
- Pack bright clothing. If your child elopes or tends to wander, dress your child in bright, solid color t-shirts that help you spot and catch him quickly (these also look good in photos) and put a child ID on him.
- Bring your camera. Take lots of photos, and review them in the hotel room and after the vacation. Sometimes children with autism can respond more to photos of events after they happen.
- Let your child move. Don't spend too much time in the car, and take frequent breaks to move around.
- Consider a stroller. Walking around a lot, e.g. at a zoo or amusement park? Consider renting a large stroller or wheelchair. Good for getting your child through crowds, and gives them a safe space.
- Schedule some aquatic therapy. Most children love swimming pools. If you can reserve a hotel with an indoor swimming pool, that can be a good choice. Even a bath can be relaxing.
- Make a keepsake album. After your vacation, make a simple photo scrapbook with your child, as a keepsake. Here's a pocket photo book you can make with a single sheet of paper (nice for school).
- Follow your child's lead, sometimes. Be prepared to enjoy different aspects of your vacation that appeal to your child. For example, my son is fascinated with elevators. We may spend some time looking at elevators in the hotel, but at least we are together.
