Eileen Suggests:
- Preparation is the best defense. Call ahead and inform the airline, hotel, resort, and cruise line of your child's condition and ask what special accommodations are available.
- Ask if you need a fridge, inside room, etc. Bring your child's own sheets, if you think that will make him or her more comfortable.
- Select an environment your child can handle.
- Talk online with other parents who have been there, done that. Simply Google the destination and "kids with autism" and you likely can connect with a local parents' group.
- Book low season on a cruise or at a resort like Club Med so there will be fewer children and the staff will have more time to devote to yours.
- Travel by car if you think flying will be too difficult. Opt to stay someplace where you can eat some of your meals in your room.
- Be forthright explaining the situation to those you meet.
Develop stories, complete with pictures, that explain to your child exactly what you will be doing and where you are going. - Whatever happens, stay calm.
- The major theme parks, especially Walt Disney World, are accommodating with front-of-the-line passes for autistic children who find it difficult to wait. SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, also have similar programs.
Don't let autism be the excuse for missing out on a great vacation. With a little thoughtful planning and research, your family can join the masses this summer in creating great memories of this year's trip.
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