Want to Start Traveling with Your Neurodivergent Child?
My kids in San Francisco
Want to Start Traveling with Your Neurodivergent Child?
Every neurodivergent child is different, travel is never one-size-fits-all. As a mom to a son with autism, ADHD, and social anxiety, and a neurotypical daughter, I’ve learned that a little prep and practice go a long way. If you’re just starting out, my best advice is to take it slow. Start small and meet your children where they are. They won’t be in this same place forever and future trips will look different.
Here are five tips that have worked for us:
1. Take a Local Day Trip
Start simple with a local day trip. Drive to a nearby town, park, or beach to get your child used to being in the car longer. Try something fun like an arcade, bowling, mini golf, or a museum. You’ll get a sense of their sensory needs and what they enjoy. And if things get too much, you’re close to home and can adjust as needed.
2. Stay in a Local Hotel
If it’s in the budget, try staying in a local hotel. It’s a great way for your children to practice being away from home. They’ll get used to things like new bedtime routines, navigating shared spaces, and maybe even trying room service. Plus, they’ll experience all the hotel sights, smells, and sounds. It’s a low-pressure way to ease into the idea of sleeping somewhere unfamiliar before a big trip.
Our local county fair
3. Visit a Local Amusement Park or Fair
If you’re planning a trip to an amusement park like Disneyland, start small with a local amusement park or fair. These places have the loud sounds, bright lights, and crowds that can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities—but on a smaller scale. It’s a great way for your child to practice waiting in lines, navigating crowds, and trying out rides. You’ll also figure out what they like, how they handle all the stimulation, and what their triggers are. This will help you plan and feel more confident when you’re ready for Disneyland.
4. Prepare for Group Travel
Traveling with extended family or friends? Help your children get comfortable with the group ahead of time. Spend time together before the trip—maybe host a game night or dinner. If distance is an issue, try Zoom or FaceTime calls so your children can get familiar with everyone. Seeing friendly, familiar faces on the trip can make a big difference.
5. Air Travel
Flying can feel like the biggest hurdle, with all the transitions—airport check-ins, security, boarding, the works. If you’re flying, check with your airline for accommodations. For example, Southwest lets you select “developmental disabilities” when booking, which gives you access to pre-boarding.
Prepping ahead of time is key. Watch YouTube videos about airports, security checks, and plane rides. Show your child pictures of what they’ll see, like TSA checkpoints, and explain things like the hum of engines or the feeling of takeoff. Look into programs like the Sunflower Lanyard at certain airports and TSA Cares for extra support.
Also, do a little research on your terminal—find quiet spaces, restrooms, and food options. On travel day, get to the airport early. Having extra time for breaks (and avoiding the stress of rushing) can make the whole experience much smoother.
These tips have made a big difference for my family, and I hope they can help yours too. Every child is different, but with a little prep and practice, traveling with children of all abilities can be enjoyable, memorable, and fun.
