Whether on a train, plane, or automobile, there are things we can do to make travel a little better for a child with special needs. As a mom of a child with special needs, I have found that planning can make traveling a more positive experience for everyone -- even if you're only traveling a few hours by car.
Here are six tips for traveling with a child of special needs:
1. Use a checklist
I like to use an app called Packpoint to make my list. It keeps me very organized and even tells me helpful information like the temperature at our destination. Keep everything on your list! There is no such thing as too much to plan for when traveling with a child who has special needs. Think about special foods, medications, equipment, documents, extra clothing, and even a favorite toy. Think of all that you might need to comfort and entertain your child on your journey.
2. Pack smart
I like to include extra items of clothing in case we need them. I've found it's better to have extras on you then find yourself needing to go to a store to buy more. Find out if your destination has a washer and dryer for your family to use, which can help you cut back on clothes you need to take. Don't forget to pack comfort items for your child, like a favorite pair of pajamas, book, or T-shirt. Also before you go, download favorite TV shows, movies or games. Think about small items to entertain too like a deck of cards and coloring pages -- whatever will distract or soothe your child.
3. Prep in advance
These days you can often pre-check in for a flight before you even arrive at the airport. Some airlines will let families with special needs deplane early. Let your hotel or resort know of any special needs or requests your family might have. If you'd rather be on a lower level floor to eliminate longer waits on elevators, for instance, just ask. Many hotels and resorts will accommodate your needs. (Looking for autism-friendly destinations? Check out our list of Certified Autism Center resorts!)
4. Prepare your child
The change in routine traveling requires might bring your child stress. You can help cut down on that stress by helping them prepare. "Social stories" can help, as can a visual calendar to count the days. Showing pictures of the destination and things you will be doing while away might also be helpful. We also show our son the date we will return home. One app that does a great social story for travel is called Model Me Going Places.
5. Plan for the unknown
All those "just in case" scenarios mean we need to have all the information on hand that we might need to cover our bases. It is what we to do every day as parents of special needs kids! For us, that means having our doctor write a letter about our child stating his diagnosis. Some of our special needs children have an “invisible” diagnosis and having a letter from your doctor might prove helpful to smooth the path at the airport, hotel, or anywhere else along the line. Before you go, look into resources at your destination. Know, for instance, where there is a doctor or medical facility in case an emergency arises.
6. Participate!
Be a part of all that you can. Communicate as much as you can and ... breathe. You deserve to have a wonderful vacation and it might take extra steps to prepare, and we may have more moments where we're not sure how our children will respond, but we can do it! It is important for us to create family memories, and our children deserve the same opportunities.
I hope that all of you with special needs kids who have plans for travel find these tips helpful. One last thing: Please allow yourself a little alone time. Have a plan with your travel partner to take a walk alone, or a bath, or enjoy a spa service. We are all better parents when we take the time to take care of ourselves.
Carissa Garabedian is the publisher of Know Different and mother to a special needs child in Richmond, Virginia. Carissa also publishes the award-winning Macaroni Kid Richmond.
