Vacationing with Kids on the Spectrum Is It Possible? Tips and Tricks to Make It Work

megan7418
Jun 15
5 min read

Planning a family vacation can be exciting, but for families with children on the autism spectrum, it can also feel daunting. Every child has unique needs, sensitivities, and preferences that can make choosing the right vacation spot challenging. However, vacationing with kids on the spectrum is not only achievable but can also be a fulfilling experience for everyone involved! In this post, we’ll share practical tips and tricks to help ensure your family trip runs smoothly.

Understanding the Challenges

Traveling with kids on the spectrum often presents unique challenges. Sensory sensitivities, changes in routine, and social anxieties significantly affect how a child experiences a trip. Recognizing these factors is essential during your vacation planning.

For instance, many children on the spectrum might struggle with unexpected sensory experiences such as loud noises or bright lights. Data indicates that around 70% of children with autism experience sensory processing difficulties. Additionally, even small changes in routine can trigger anxiety or meltdowns. As a mom of a child on the Spectrum currently vacationing in Disney meltdowns are going to happen, but here are some great things that have helped us!

So, how can families effectively navigate these challenges? Let's explore expert recommendations.

Choose the Right Destination

When planning a vacation, selecting a destination that meets your child's unique needs is critical. Look for kid-friendly locations known to be accommodating to families with children on the spectrum.

Here are some great destination options include:

National Parks: These locations provide calm nature experiences and ample space to explore. For instance, a family hike at Yellowstone National Park offers trails of varying lengths and difficulties, allowing your child to enjoy nature at their own pace.
Resorts with Kids' Programs: Many resorts offer activities tailored for children, including those with special needs. For example, Club Med has numerous family resorts featuring dedicated programs for kids on the spectrum, ensuring a supportive environment. Disney offers some DAS pass after an initial to video conference for some, as well as all staff are trained and the visitor center at each park has limited numbers of sensory bags and some have designation sensory break areas.
Quiet Beaches: Consider less crowded beaches like those in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, which allow for safe exploration and enjoyment of the outdoors without overwhelming noise. Plus for those with kiddos like mine who love sand and water sensory play these meet both of those needs.

Plan a Flexible Itinerary

A well-structured yet flexible itinerary can make a world of difference. Instead of tightly scheduling activities, build in free time and spontaneous break periods that accommodate your child's needs. We normally go with a general plan of what we will do for the day, but will let the kids lead. This has really. helped in them feeling more in control of a new strange place that overwhelms them. Have a supply of activities, favorite apps, or videos on your phone to pull up while in line.

Prepare with Social Stories or Visual Schedules

Preparing your child for travel can ease anxiety. Using visual schedules or social stories can effectively help them understand what to expect.

Visual schedules can consist of simple drawings or photos depicting each step of your journey, from arriving at the airport to settling into a hotel. Research suggests that this type of preparation can significantly reduce anxiety in children with autism. Take favorite sensory items, coloring activities, etc with you when you travel. This road trip to Disney we invested in portable DVD players for the kids. These don't have to break the bank, I was able to get a pack of 2 from Walmart for $74.00 and can be used multiple times.

Communicate with Accommodation Staff

When booking accommodation, be open and communicate your needs to hotel or resort staff. Inform them that you will be vacationing with a child on the spectrum. Many establishments are eager to provide accommodations, such as a quiet room or specific support services.

Choosing places that are familiar with special needs and can offer tailored assistance is invaluable. Effective communication in larger venues can alleviate potential stressors for your child. I have found many places to be very accommodating.

Pack Sensory Tools and Comfort Items

Not to constantly restate this but, it is so important! Providing your child with items that create a sense of security is essential. Pack sensory tools such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or comfort items like favorite stuffed animals, blankets, or books. For parks that allow it we always pack preferred foods. I have also found for those who do not allow food, some will make exceptions if you call them and explain the situation. We all know a hungry kid who is already overwhelmed does not equate to fun....

A survey from the Autism Society found that 85% of parents reported that bringing familiar objects helps their children manage anxiety while traveling. These items can create a comforting environment during hectic moments on your trip.

Embrace the Unexpected

Even the best plans can go awry. Meltdowns or sensory overload may occur; it's part of the adventure. Tonight I was just under the table with my son in our hotel room on our third round of meltdowns. He was so over tired after a day at the parks in the Florida heat (Pennsylvanians here :D) and every no resulted in escalations and aggression towards Mama and as the "safe parent" there are times that vacation feels like more work than staying home. However, consider the new experiences you are providing and the small smiles make it all worth it.

When these moments happen, view them as learning experiences. Staying calm and patient allows your child to develop coping mechanisms, turning challenging situations into valuable lessons about managing emotions. My husband and I have started utilizing tap outs where if we feel we can't be calm we came up with a way to communicate that and switch out for a couple minutes, which has been so helpful.

A Lasting Family Experience

Enjoying a vacation with kids on the spectrum is entirely possible. Thoughtful planning and resourcefulness can lead to creating cherished memories. By understanding your child's unique needs, choosing an appropriate destination, and using strategies to manage changing circumstances, your next family trip can be enjoyable and fulfilling. Autism on the Seas is a great resource if anyone has consider taking a cruise, but like me is terrified of my child on a boat surrounded by water!