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Juicy Travel Tips 

Written by Antoinette

Juicy Travel Tips

2 August 2024

Juicy Travel Tips

Travelling with autistic children can be both exciting and a bit challenging and the experience is going to come with additional considerations.  With careful planning and preparation, travel can be a wonderful opportunity for your child to experience new environments and cultures.  Here are some helpful tips to help navigate the potential pitfalls and ensure a smoother journey for both you and your child.

Preparing your child for travel

  • Create a social story – Develop a personalized story that outlines each step of the travel process. Include details about packing, going to the airport, checking in, security procedures, boarding the plane and arriving at the destination.  
  • Visual schedules can also help your child understand the sequence of events. Use pictures or symbols to represent each stage of the journey.  This can reduce anxiety by making the process predictable.  My son, Max, loves luggage so I give him the responsibility of pulling his own bag and this also gives him something positive to focus on.
  • If possible and your child is a first-time traveler, take a trip to the airport or train station before the actual travel day. This can also help your child become familiar with the sights, sounds and activities in these busy environments.
  • Show your child videos of airplanes, airports, train stations or any other mode of transport you will be using. This visual familiarity can make the experience less overwhelming.
  • You can also start with short, local trips to help your child get used to the process of travelling. Gradually increase the duration as your child becomes more comfortable.
  • Engage in role-playing activities where you simulate the travel experience. Practice going through security checks, boarding the plane and sitting in the seats.
Antoinette Porter

Supporting Families with Autistic Children

As a qualified life coach and a parent of an autistic child, I bring a unique blend of professional expertise and personal understanding to my work with families dealing with autism. My journey as a parent has equipped me with firsthand insights into the challenges and triumphs that come with raising an autistic child.

I specialise in offering tailored support and compassionate guidance to families navigating similar paths.

My approach is empathetic and informed, focusing on empowering families to not only manage but also to celebrate the unique aspects of life with an autistic child. Through personalised coaching sessions, I provide effective strategies, support for enhancing family dynamics, and techniques for positive communication.

My goal is to help families foster a deeper understanding of autism and find balance and joy in their lives.

Dealing with overwhelm during travel

  • Don’t forget the noise-cancelling headphones. Airports and train stations can be very noisy and overstimulating.  Headphones will help reduce the auditory overload.
  • Bring familiar comfort items such as a favourite blanket, stuffed animal or toy. Max’s dinosaur, Toto goes everywhere with him.  (We even have a photo of Toto with one of the security people, she even cracked a smile for the photo!)
  • Pack sensory tools like fidget spinners, stress balls or weighted blankets to help your child manage sensory input.
  • Prepare a small kit with items that help calm your child. This could include stress-relief toys, calming essential oils, medication or even their ipad.
  • Teach your child simple breathing exercises to use when they feel anxious. Practicing these techniques beforehand can make them more effective during travel.  Max finds the whole breathing thing hysterical and usually packs up laughing which also reduces stress.
  • Try to maintain your child’s regular routine as much as possible. This includes mealtimes, sleep schedules and any other daily rituals they are accustomed to.
  • Have contingency plans in place for potential delays. Pack extra snacks, activities and any necessary medications to cover unexpected waiting times.
  • Remember that a calm parent leads to a calm child.

Practical tips for smooth travel

  • Familiarize yourself with the destination, including nearby medical facilities, grocery stores and any potential sensory-friendly attractions.
  • Many airlines and hotels offer accommodations for families traveling with autistic children. Contact them in advance to discuss your needs.
  • Ensure that you have all necessary documents, including identification, medical records and any prescriptions. Keep these in an easily accessible place.
  • Pack a variety of familiar snacks and meals that your child enjoys. This can prevent meltdowns related to unfamiliar or disliked food.
  • Let the airline or train staff know about your child’s needs. They can often provide assistance such as priority boarding or special seating arrangements.
  • Consider using an identification card or bracelet for your child that provides essential information in case you get separated.
Blog - Juicy Travel Tips - by Antoinette Freedgood

Juicy Travel Tips

Pitfalls to avoid

  • While it’s important to be prepared, overpacking can make travel more stressful. Focus on essential items and leave room for flexibility.
  • Traveling with an autistic child can be demanding. Ensure you also take care of yourself by getting enough rest, eating well. And asking for help when needed.
  • Accept that not everything will go perfectly. Be prepared for the meltdowns, dysregulation and whatever comes up.  This is normal and part of the journey.  Rather focus on the positive experiences rather than achieving a flawless trip.

It is possible and doable traveling with your autistic child.  It may not look like other families, although all kids get overwhelmed so no trip is without challenges.  Do not shy away from the wonderful experience of travelling with your autistic child.  Remember to celebrate the small victories, knowing that each trip will build confidence and resilience in your child.

Till next week

A

Xxx

PS. If you want to travel with your autistic child but emotionally you are just not up for it with all drama that comes along with it, I can help you get the place where you are looking forward to travelling with your child and to enjoy the experience.  ​Sign up for a free consult. Click HERE.

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