Welcome back to Adventures with Kids! In today’s episode, I’m merging my two worlds: my life as a mama and my professional background as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

We’re diving into the reality of traveling with neurodivergent children or kids with medical needs. Whether you’re planning a big trip or just trying to survive a visit to the grandparents, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help your family thrive.

Is This Your Season for Travel?

Before you pack the bags, I invite you to check in with yourself. Sometimes, the most adventurous thing you can do is recognize that a big trip might not be what your family needs right now.

  • Identify the "Why": Are you looking for rest, novelty, or family bonding?
  • Alternative Adventures: If a flight feels like too much, look for mini sparks nearby: a fenced-in playground, a fancy coffee shop, or even a date night at home after the kids are in bed.

Pro-Tips for Stress-Free Visits

If you must travel (for holidays or family events), preparation is your best friend:

  • Prep the Relatives: Talk to family members ahead of time so they know what you and your child need for an enjoyable time for everyone.
  • Ship it Ahead: Send heavy or essential items (weighted blankets, incontinence mats) directly to your destination.
  • Safety First: Consider ID bracelets or temporary contact info inside clothing. Talk to your doctor or therapists about "safety" tools like extra door locks or sensors for travel.
  • The Break from Therapy: Unless it’s a specific goal, don’t force new foods or skills while traveling. Pack the reliable snacks and focus on the connection. Of course if your child has specific therapy strategies that help them get through the day, keep those up :)

Tools for Regulation & Transitions

  • Visual Schedules: Use Canva to create a simple daily itinerary with photos so your child knows what’s coming next. Better yet, start with my FREE examples and edit them for your family!
  • Sensory Gear: Pack a "Mary Poppins" bag with noise-canceling headphones, "chewies," (we love this variety pack of necklaces and bracelets) white noise machines and whatever else supports your child.
  • Strategic Strollers: Look for strollers with large canopies (for a sensory escape) and high weight limits. Our favorite Single and Double - both have high weight limits, giant canopies, and are easy to navigate even with one hand if needed.
  • Social Stories: Check museum and airport websites for pre-made social stories or sensory room locations so you can talk through what to expect ahead of time and regroup when needed.

Visual Schedule Examples

  • TSA Cares: Contact them 72 hours before your flight for assistance with screenings and medications.
  • The Arc: Wings for All: Practice "rehearsal" flights and security screenings for kids with special needs.

Work With Me!

Ready to plan an adventure but feeling overwhelmed by the logistics? I’m thrilled to announce my curated adventures! I now offer custom itinerary design and travel consulting. I’ll handle the research, transitions, and sensory-friendly planning so you can focus on making memories.

Listen to the Full Episode

Traveling with Special Kids
→ Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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