Preparing for a holiday – tips for children with autism

We have looked at some practical ways to make it a successful family holiday for a child with autism.

Most people love holiday’s and really look forward to unwinding and taking a break. Holidays and family vacations, however, can be very challenging and overwhelming for children with autism. 

At SDN, we believe that everybody deserves a holiday! And the good news is that the increase in global autism awareness has made travel and accommodation a lot easier than it used to be for a child with autism.

Understanding and preparation can support a successful family holiday.

Understand your child 

Find out exactly what their anxieties and fears are.  Some of these could include:

• Mode of transport being used
• Unsure about a new place, new food, or new people
• Fear of the unknown
• Change in the routine
• Sensory overload

Holiday Preparation 

Once you have an understanding about what your child’s specific needs are, you can start to plan your holiday. 

Tips to help the child:

• Talk to them and ask them about their concerns
• Prepare them with as much information about the holiday destination as possible through books, brochures, websites and video clips.
• Discuss what part of their daily routine will remain the same and what things will be different
• Prepare a visual schedule for the holiday that they can take with them
• Prepare a travel bag with some of their favourite things, including items that help them to calm down or to feel more secure.
• Give them information about who the ‘safe’ adults are to approach during travel if they get lost or need help.  g. Security personnel, flight attendant, staff etc
• Have them wear a medical alert bracelet or carry Autism Alert Card. These are particularly helpful for when a child is lost, they have difficulty communicating or get upset in unfamiliar surroundings

Tips for parents:

• Be VERY selective with accommodation. Consider noise, lights, amount of people
• If possible, reconsider staying at a relative’s house - the added amount of people under one roof can be very overwhelming for some children with Autism. This then often leads to more stress and pressure on their parents – which negates the reason for having a holiday in the first place.
• Use the search term ‘autism-friendly’ when looking for accommodation and modes of transport
• Discuss your child’s needs beforehand with others who can help.
• Plan and prepare for everything, as much as you can.
• Consider food options. Can you bring your own food? What restaurants are nearby that are suitable?
• Consider all sensory issues that may arise and how you can help minimise or eliminate sensory overload
• Pack a spare of your child’s favourite security item or calming object, extra batteries and a charger! (if needed)

While the planning and preparation for such a holiday can seem unrelenting, it will ensure that all members of the family have an enjoyable time together.