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6 Tips for Enjoying a Splendid Vacation with a Child that has Special Needs

Going on Vacation with your Special Needs Child?  You’re going to have a fabulous time! Vacations can be rewarding for everyone involved and if you have a special needs child, it can offer a tremendous opportunity for growth and development. Vacationing with your children can offer benefits such as family bonding, new experiences, hands on education and a break from routine. Though there can be different stresses, the time away can also provide perspective. A vacation can be as elaborate as a cruise, trip overseas, to a spa, Disney World or camping in a local state park. Here are a few tips to keep your travels sensory smart!

1. Plan Ahead

Many parks, sites and vacation spots have accommodations for individuals with special needs. But even if not, it pays to do a bit of research about the area you will be visiting. Print out some maps or order them ahead (yes, the old fashioned kind) so your kids can follow your route. Let your kids help with some research. Involve them in some of the planning whether it is packing, food or where to stop. Make sure your stops are child friendly too.

2. Travel Bag

If you’re going to be on the road or airplane for any extended amount of time, take a long a Break Bag or your favorite sensory tools. I suggest you not use these for a while before your trip so they are new and interesting to your children. You can also create your own sensory sack with your child’s favorite fidget toys, chewies, music and workbooks. Although an occasional video is fun for all, I highly suggest avoiding a continuum of videos, which can create a real brain drain.

3. Stop Often

Take breaks. Build in some extra travel time and downtime to just relax and hang out whether it is a road stop, swimming pool or just relaxing together. This gives the body some much needed movement and sensory input while on the road.

4. Be Flexible

Your plans may change and your children may or may not tolerate everything you’ve scheduled. Remember the goal is not always the destination. Sometimes just the journey can be highly beneficial.

5. Stay on Routine

As much as possible stick to meal times routines. This doesn’t mean you loose flexibility on your end but eating regular meals will help keep everyone well nourished. With that said, avoid sweets as much as possible which can cause sugar levels to soar. This can create a lot of havoc on everyone.

6. Get Moving

When you get where you’re headed, make sure everyone gets to move! Climb the stairs, go to the pool, walk on the beach or whatever you can to get the blood circulating. Enjoy your trip. I’m sure it will be memorable for years to come!