Soaring High with Autism: A Guide to Stress-Free Air Travel
- sanchayourjourneyp
- Oct 28, 2023
- 3 min read
As a family that loves to explore the world, air travel has been a constant companion on our adventures. It's a thrilling way to discover new places, cultures, and create lasting memories. But, as any parent of an autistic child knows, traveling by air can also present some unique challenges. Over the years, we've developed strategies and insights to make air travel more manageable and less stressful for our child on the autism spectrum. Today, I want to share our guide to stress-free air travel with you, in hopes that it might make your journeys a bit smoother too.
Airport Assistance Services:
One of the first hurdles in air travel is navigating the busy airport environment. Here's how we've found assistance services to be invaluable:
Request Assistance in Advance: When booking your flight, contact the airline to request assistance. Most airlines offer support services for passengers with special needs. This can include priority boarding, assistance through security, and help getting to your gate.
TSA Cares Program: In the United States, the TSA Cares program provides security checkpoint support. Notify them at least 72 hours in advance to arrange assistance. This can significantly reduce stress during security checks.
Quiet Areas: Some airports now offer designated quiet areas, often in collaboration with autism advocacy organizations. These spaces provide a calm environment to relax before your flight.
Security Checkpoint Strategies:
The security checkpoint is a part of air travel that can cause anxiety for anyone, but for autistic children, it can be particularly overwhelming. Here's how we've made it more manageable:
Prepare Your Child: Before the trip, use social stories or visual supports to explain the security process to your child. Include what to expect, such as removing shoes or going through a metal detector.
**Communication: Be sure to communicate with TSA agents about your child's needs. They are trained to assist passengers with special needs and can provide clear instructions.
Request a Private Screening: If your child is uncomfortable with the standard security process, request a private screening. This can be a more relaxed and sensory-friendly option.
Travel Comfort Items: Familiar comfort items such as a favorite toy or a sensory-friendly item can provide comfort and distraction during security checks.
In-Flight Strategies:
Once onboard, there are strategies to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable flight:
Seat Selection: Choose seats strategically. A window seat may offer a view that can be calming, while an aisle seat allows for easier movement.
Headphones and Entertainment: Noise-canceling headphones can help to minimize sensory input. Bring entertainment such as favorite movies or games to keep your child engaged.
Sensory Kits: Create a sensory kit with familiar items like fidget toys, a weighted blanket, or a comfort item. These can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.
Snacks and Special Dietary Needs: Ensure you have your child's favorite snacks and consider any dietary restrictions or special meal requests when booking your flight.
Visual Supports: Use visual supports or a visual schedule to help your child understand the sequence of the flight. This can help with transitions and reduce anxiety.
Friendly Communication: Inform the flight attendants about your child's needs. They can be incredibly understanding and may check in with you during the flight to offer assistance.
*Pictured my son playing with his fidgeting toy while flying.
Air travel with an autistic child can be a joyful adventure when you're armed with preparation and support. Remember that each child is unique, and what works best for one may not be the same for another. With patience and understanding, air travel can open up a world of possibilities for your family, and each journey can be a step toward new discoveries and cherished memories. So, here's to soaring high with autism, one flight at a time.
Sancha Moran
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