Traveling with an autistic child

I came across some articles that touch upon travel with an autistic child. I thought someone might be interested. Some of this stuff does not apply to John and other stuff is right on. It is worth the read.

This article is from "smarter travel".

This one is from USA today.

Here is one from a parent on epinions.com

Here is the tsa: travelers with disabilities website with information

Here is one resource that has a ton of tips. (AutismTravel.org)

I'll end with a section from the last website I listed:

Preparing an autistic child for vacation should begin with an understanding with their core problem areas. If sensory issues are a problem, then you need to address those. For example, an amusement park visit may require headphones/earplugs for a child with audio difficulties. If you child is on the diet, then reserve a room with a refrigerator. That is simple, right?

But what about preparing your child in other ways? Perhaps a social story discussing issues that come up on the ride -- like hitting your sister or singing the Mickey Mouse theme song 91 times. Rent a video of your destination for your child to watch. Or a library book on the destination. If they use visual schedules, then prepare a visual schedule for the week of vacation.

Also think through the location. The beach is a family favorite but could be an issue for any child. The sound of the waves, feel of sand and wind, taste of the water, bright sun -- all together equals sensory overload. Maybe you put sand in a bucket and dip their feet in? Or you can buy a wave CD and play it at night for a few weeks before you leave. And if worse comes to worse, you divide and conquer. One parent takes the sibs to the beach and the other to the pool. Or you all visit the pool.