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FREE Airplane Trip Social Story and Coloring Book

Do you also have a special needs or sensory kid?  Check out this list of tools for your next trip!  Airplane Travel Survival Kit for Sensory Kids

I found all these great airplane travel graphics from Educlips on Teachers Pay Teachers.   I am so happy that she offers her art in both color and black and white.  The creator made it super easy to make the social story with a matching coloring book.

My goal with this social story was to cover all the major moments in airplane travel, while still keeping the context short and simple.  So hard!  The story talks about arriving at the airport, checking bags at the ticket counter, going through security, boarding the plane, behavior while on the plane, and other important things your child needs to know.

The color printable includes 12 cards that you can print and use before and during your trip.  I recommend cutting them apart, and then laminating them for durability.  I included a spot on the cards to guide your hole punching, so you can put them on a keyring or lanyard.  Read through the cards frequently before you get to the airport.  Then, review one card at a time just before you experience it on the journey.

If you're having trouble with my other printables, blame Google.  They messed up my entire library (almost 1000 between my two blogs), and I'm still trying to get them all fixed.  These one should be fine and hopefully the others will as well.

The coloring book is set up to be printed back to back and folded into a booklet.  There are 16 pages, which includes the text from the social story and a few more fun prompts.  Your child can work on the pictures while on the plane.  I recommend these twist up colored pencils for coloring; although triangular crayons might be better for some kids, as they won't roll off the tray table.  The best part is that you can print this book off as many times as you'd like (personal use only), so your child can color it on every flight!

I highly recommend checking out the blog post at Every Star is Different.   She is raising four special needs kids and did an extensive preparation period before they took their first airplane trip.  Her family went to the courthouse with backpacks full of belongings to practice going through security, as one of their pre-flight activities.  I think we should do that before our trip as well.  The blog is full of great ideas for parenting and homeschooling special needs kids and has tons of free printables, so it's very worthwhile to visit.

My kids are also enjoying the book, "How Airplanes Work," which also covers the process of flying from arrival to departure.  The different flaps open to show what's happening in the baggage check area, the airplane bathroom, and more.  It's opened lots of good discussions.  We've also filled in other information with Youtube videos.

I'm also planning on surprising my kids with an airplane from our carrier.   They love everything with wheels (and will probably be disappointed that they don't have a propeller), and should enjoy reenacting the take off, flight, and landing.

I still have a few more printables I'm working on in preparation for our airplane trip, so come back soon.  My head is spinning with all the details!

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Printable Resource

Social story – going on an airplane.

Going on vacation? Help your child, student, or client prepare by reading this social story all about air travel! Our Going on an Airplane social story previews vacation prep, airport etiquette, airplane rules and safety guidelines. We encourage parents to read this with their children before and during their trip to help promote a smooth transition to vacation mode!

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Traveling with Autism: Tips for Managing Sensory Issues

With some careful planning and preparation, you can help make your trip as smooth as possible. Here are some tips for managing sensory issues while traveling:

For individuals with autism, traveling can present unique challenges due to sensory issues . Understanding these issues and their impact is essential for creating a positive travel experience. In this section, we will explore the sensory issues in autism and discuss the challenges that can arise while traveling.

Understanding Sensory Issues in Autism

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how individuals process and respond to sensory information from their environment. People with autism may experience sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviors. Sensory sensitivities can manifest in various ways, such as sensitivity to loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces. On the other hand, sensory-seeking behaviors involve seeking out certain sensory experiences, like spinning or touching different textures.

It's important to recognize that sensory issues can vary greatly among individuals with autism. What may be overwhelming for one person may not affect another in the same way. Being aware of the specific sensory sensitivities of the individual you are traveling with is crucial for planning a successful trip.

Challenges of Traveling with Sensory Issues

Traveling can introduce a range of new and unfamiliar sensory experiences, which can be overwhelming for individuals with autism. Some common challenges include:

• Noise : Airports, train stations, and crowded tourist attractions can be noisy, causing distress for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
• Lights : Bright lights in airports, hotels, or theme parks can be overwhelming for those with sensitivity to light.
• Crowds : Large crowds and confined spaces can trigger anxiety and sensory overload.
• Unfamiliar Environments : New smells, textures, and unfamiliar surroundings can be disorienting for individuals with autism.

These challenges can make travel stressful for both the individual with autism and their families. However, with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to manage these sensory issues and create a positive travel experience.

By understanding the sensory issues commonly associated with autism and recognizing the challenges they can present while traveling, parents and caregivers can take proactive steps to address these concerns. With proper preparation and the implementation of sensory-friendly strategies, individuals with autism can enjoy the wonders of travel while managing their sensory needs.

Preparing for Travel

When traveling with autism, thorough preparation can make a significant difference in managing sensory issues and ensuring a smoother travel experience. This section discusses essential steps to take before embarking on your journey, including researching and planning ahead, creating a visual schedule, and packing sensory-friendly items.

Researching and Planning Ahead

Before your trip, it is crucial to research and plan ahead to minimize potential stressors and ensure a more predictable travel experience. Start by familiarizing yourself with the destination and transportation options available.

Consider reaching out to travel agencies or organizations that specialize in autism travel support . They can offer guidance, support, and even customized itineraries to cater to the unique needs of individuals with autism. These professionals are well-equipped to provide valuable advice on accommodations, attractions, and transportation options that can help minimize sensory overload and maximize enjoyment.

Creating a Visual Schedule

Visual schedules are an effective tool for individuals with autism to understand and anticipate their daily activities. Creating a visual schedule for travel can help alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of structure and predictability. Use visual aids, such as pictures, symbols, or written words, to represent each step of the journey, including departure, transportation, accommodation, and activities.

Break down the travel itinerary into manageable segments and display the visual schedule in a format that suits your child's needs. This can be a portable visual schedule book, a laminated sheet, or even a digital tablet. Review the schedule with your child before the trip, emphasizing the sequence of events and discussing any potential changes that might occur.

Packing Sensory-Friendly Items

Packing appropriate sensory-friendly items can help create a more comfortable and familiar environment during travel. Consider including items that your child finds calming or comforting, such as noise-canceling headphones, a weighted blanket, or fidget toys. These items can provide a sense of security and serve as effective coping mechanisms in overwhelming situations.

Additionally, pack essential sensory-related items like sunglasses, earplugs, or a favorite comfort object. These familiar items can help your child feel at ease and reduce sensory overload in different environments. Remember, it's essential to involve your child in the packing process, allowing them to choose items they find soothing or enjoyable.

By researching and planning ahead, creating a visual schedule, and packing sensory-friendly items, you can significantly enhance your child's travel experience. These strategies provide structure, predictability, and comfort, ultimately reducing anxiety and sensory challenges. In the next section, we will explore strategies for navigating transportation while managing sensory overload.

Navigating Transportation

When it comes to traveling with autism, navigating transportation can be a significant challenge due to sensory issues. However, with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to create a more comfortable travel experience. In this section, we will explore some tips for choosing the right mode of transportation, creating a comfortable travel environment, and managing sensory overload during travel.

Choosing the Right Mode of Transportation

Selecting the appropriate mode of transportation is crucial when traveling with autism. Consider the specific needs and preferences of the individual with autism to determine which option will be the most suitable. Some individuals may feel more comfortable and at ease in a car, while others may prefer trains or planes.

When choosing a mode of transportation, it's important to consider factors such as the length of the journey, the individual's sensory sensitivities, and any additional accommodations that may be required. For example, if flying, it may be beneficial to inform the airline in advance to request any necessary accommodations, such as pre-boarding or seating preferences.

Creating a Comfortable Travel Environment

To create a comfortable travel environment, it's essential to bring familiar and sensory-friendly items. These could include noise-canceling headphones to reduce auditory input, a favorite blanket or stuffed animal for comfort, or a weighted blanket to provide a calming effect. By surrounding the individual with familiar and soothing items, it can help them feel more at ease during the journey.

Additionally, consider creating a designated space within the travel environment that is conducive to relaxation. This could involve selecting seating that allows for more personal space or bringing a portable sensory tent where the individual can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. By proactively creating a comfortable and sensory-friendly travel environment, it can significantly alleviate stress and anxiety.

Managing Sensory Overload during Travel

Sensory overload is a common challenge when traveling with autism, as unfamiliar environments can be overwhelming. To manage sensory overload, it can be helpful to incorporate calming techniques and strategies. This could involve using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to reduce auditory stimuli, wearing sunglasses to minimize visual stimulation, or carrying a weighted lap pad or fidget toys for tactile input.

In addition to these sensory tools, taking regular sensory breaks during the journey can provide much-needed respite. This could involve finding quiet spaces, such as airport lounges or designated rest areas, where the individual can relax and regroup. Implementing these strategies can help prevent sensory overload and make the travel experience more manageable.

By considering the mode of transportation, creating a comfortable travel environment, and implementing strategies to manage sensory overload, it is possible to make traveling with autism a smoother experience. Remember to plan ahead, communicate any specific needs or accommodations, and prioritize the well-being of the individual with autism throughout the journey.

Accommodations and Destinations

When traveling with autism, selecting the right accommodations and destinations can greatly contribute to a successful and enjoyable trip. Consider the following tips when making these important decisions.

Selecting Autism-Friendly Accommodations

Choosing accommodations that are autism-friendly can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Look for hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals that prioritize sensory considerations and provide a supportive environment. Some features to consider include:

• Quiet rooms : Seek accommodations that offer quiet rooms away from busy areas or provide soundproofing to minimize external noise.
• Sensory-friendly rooms : Some hotels offer sensory-friendly rooms with dimmable lights, blackout curtains, and soft bedding to create a soothing atmosphere.
• Specialized amenities : Inquire about accommodations that provide sensory-friendly items such as weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or fidget toys.
• Flexible meal options : Opt for accommodations that offer a variety of dietary options to accommodate specific preferences or restrictions.

Researching and booking autism-friendly accommodations in advance will help ensure a comfortable stay for both you and your loved one with autism.

Researching Autism-Friendly Destinations

When planning your trip, consider destinations that are known for being autism-friendly. Some locations offer attractions and activities that are accommodating to individuals with sensory sensitivities and other autism-related needs. Here are some factors to consider:

• Quiet and calm environments : Look for destinations that offer serene and tranquil surroundings, such as nature reserves, parks, or secluded beaches.
• Sensory-friendly attractions : Research attractions that provide sensory-friendly experiences, such as museums with quiet hours, theme parks with special accommodations, or theaters with sensory-friendly performances.
• Supportive community : Seek out destinations where the local community is understanding and supportive of individuals with autism, ensuring a welcoming environment.

By researching autism-friendly destinations in advance, you can tailor your travel plans to suit the specific needs and preferences of your family.

Communicating with Staff and Service Providers

Before your trip, it's essential to communicate with the staff and service providers at your chosen accommodations and destinations. Inform them about your loved one's specific sensory needs and any accommodations or support they may require. This proactive communication can help ensure a smooth and understanding experience. Consider the following steps:

• Contact accommodations in advance : Reach out to the accommodations via email or phone to discuss your specific requirements and confirm that they can meet your needs. Inquire about any special arrangements or accommodations they can provide.
• Notify attractions and venues : If you plan to visit specific attractions or venues, contact them ahead of time to inquire about any available accommodations for individuals with autism. This way, you can plan your visits accordingly.
• Provide necessary documentation : If your loved one requires any special accommodations or support, provide relevant documentation, such as a doctor's note or an autism diagnosis, to ensure that your requests are taken seriously.

Open and transparent communication with staff and service providers will help create a supportive environment and ensure that your loved one's needs are met during your travels.

By carefully selecting autism-friendly accommodations and destinations, and effectively communicating your needs to staff and service providers, you can create a travel experience that is both comfortable and enjoyable for your loved one with autism.

Strategies for Successful Travel

When traveling with autism, implementing effective strategies can greatly contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Here are some strategies to consider:

Using Social Stories and Visual Supports

Social stories and visual supports are valuable tools for individuals with autism. These resources provide clear and concise explanations of various situations and can help individuals understand what to expect during their travel journey.

Social stories can be tailored to specific travel scenarios, such as going through airport security or staying in a hotel. Visual supports, such as schedules, maps, and pictorial guides, can provide visual cues and enhance understanding. These strategies can reduce anxiety and uncertainty, allowing individuals to navigate new environments more confidently.

Implementing Sensory Breaks and Calming Techniques

Traveling can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Implementing sensory breaks throughout the journey can provide much-needed relief.

Identify quiet and calm spaces where individuals can retreat to relax and regroup. Packing sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or weighted blankets can also help manage sensory overload. Additionally, teaching and practicing calming techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques, can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

Maintaining Routines and Familiarity

Maintaining routines and incorporating familiar elements can bring a sense of comfort and stability during travel. Consistency in meal times, bedtime routines, and engaging in familiar activities can help individuals feel more at ease in unfamiliar environments.

Bringing along familiar items, such as favorite toys or books, can provide a sense of security and familiarity. It's also helpful to plan activities or outings that align with the individual's interests and preferences, as this can make the travel experience more enjoyable. By maintaining routines and incorporating familiar elements, individuals with autism can feel more grounded and supported throughout their journey.

By implementing these strategies, parents and caregivers can enhance the travel experience for individuals with autism. Remember, each individual is unique, so it's important to tailor these strategies to the specific needs and preferences of the individual. With proper preparation and support, traveling with autism can be a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience

Traveling with autism requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Here are some tips to help manage sensory issues and make the journey more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Preparing for Security Checks and Customs

Security checks and customs procedures can be overwhelming for individuals with autism due to the unfamiliarity and sensory stimuli involved. To prepare for these situations:

• Research and communicate : Familiarize yourself with the security and customs procedures at the airports or other transportation hubs you will be using. Reach out to the relevant authorities or airlines to inquire about any accommodations or support they can provide for individuals with autism.
• Prepare visual supports : Create visual schedules or social stories to help your loved one understand the sequence of events during security checks and customs. Include information about what to expect, such as removing items from pockets or going through metal detectors. These visual supports can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of predictability.

Managing Transitions and Unfamiliar Environments

Transitions and unfamiliar environments can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism. To help manage these situations:

• Plan for transitions : Prepare your loved one for transitions between different modes of transportation or locations. Use visual schedules or timers to provide a clear understanding of when transitions will occur. Gradually introduce new environments or activities to help them acclimate to changes.
• Create familiarity : Bring along familiar items, such as favorite toys or comfort objects, to provide a sense of familiarity in unfamiliar environments. This can help reduce anxiety and provide a source of comfort and security.

Building in Downtime and Self-Care

Traveling can be tiring for individuals with autism, so it's important to build in downtime and self-care opportunities:

• Schedule breaks : Plan regular breaks throughout the journey to allow for rest and relaxation. Find quiet areas or designated sensory rooms at airports or other travel hubs where your loved one can take a break from the noise and stimulation.
• Engage in calming activities : Encourage your loved one to engage in calming activities during downtime, such as listening to music, reading a book, or engaging in a preferred sensory activity. These activities can help regulate sensory input and provide a sense of calm.

Remember, every individual with autism is unique, so it's important to tailor these tips to meet their specific needs. By preparing for security checks and customs, managing transitions and unfamiliar environments, and building in downtime and self-care, you can help create a smoother travel experience for your loved one.

Traveling with autism can be challenging, but with some careful planning and preparation, you can help manage your sensory issues and make your trip as enjoyable as possible. Remember to plan ahead, manage noise, light, and smells, and choose accommodations that can accommodate your needs. With these tips, you'll be able to focus on the fun and excitement of your trip!

• https://www.jcfs.org/blog/come-fly-me-travel-tips-children-autism-spectrum-disorder
• https://behavioral-innovations.com/managing-sensory-overload-airplanes-children-with-autism/
• https://childmind.org/article/tips-for-going-places-with-sensory-challenged-kids/

Steven Zauderer

CEO of CrossRiverTherapy - a national ABA therapy company based in the USA.

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Autism Air Travel Stories and Visual Supports for Families

Traveling with young children can be anxiety-producing for parents (and kids!).  This change in routine can be even more difficult for autistic children and children with other special needs. I’ve put together some resources to help when it comes to autism and air travel.

Visual Supports for Air Travel

Going On An Airplane Story

Wearing A Mask On the Airplane Story

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THANK YOU! I have a kiddo in my class taking their first Airplane trip….. trying to help support them as much as possible! Thank you for having free resources that people can use in a quick pinch/emergency! I appreciate you!!!

Ashley, So great to hear!! Tara

This is perfect. My 5 y/o hasn’t traveled since she was a baby and we are doing a few flights this summer. We have been reading this book along with watching some videos about flying to help her visualize and know what to anticipate. Thank you so much for making this easy-to-read, very comprehensive book about air travel. I truly appreciate it.

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Booklet: Airport Social Stories

This booklet, developed by Carol Gray, contains social stories on air travel for children and adults with autism. Accompanied by pictures and short sentences, it is intended to improve an individual’s understanding of airport procedures. These social stories cover check-ins, security checkpoints, boarding and exiting the plane.

View the Booklet – Airport Social Stories

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Travel Training for Autistic People

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Travel training is the process of learning how to get from one place to another on your own. For autistic people , travel training is critically important: it’s the key to independent living.

But depending on your location and available programs and resources, an autistic child may become an adult without having a clear idea of how to navigate or access transportation outside of their home and school.

In many cases, parents or guardians provide most of the travel training once a child is old enough to need transportation to work, day programs, or community activities. In this article, learn who should receive travel training, general tips, and tips and resources for specific types of travel.

Who Should Receive Travel Training

Not all autistic adults will have the ability to travel independently. Those who can travel independently may not have the ability to drive on their own. But for those who are capable of walking, using public transportation, or driving, travel training can lead to greater self-confidence, flexibility, and independence.

For successful independent travel, an autistic person should—at a minimum—be able to:

• Effectively communicate their wants and needs
• Manage their emotions in a challenging situation
• Follow rules and regulations when those rules are previewed
• Answer unexpected questions from strangers
• Request help as needed using a cell phone or interacting with strangers
• Cope with the noise, smells, and other sensory experiences that are part of their chosen environment and form of transportation

Of course, your autistic loved one will also have to navigate situations such as following a schedule and paying for travel, but those challenges can be managed efficiently through apps, alarms, and other tools .

General Tips for Travel Training

Different types of travel present different challenges and opportunities. Perhaps the least challenging is a simple walk from one nearby location to another. But some of the same challenges and tips apply to every form of travel. These general tips are a great place to start:

• Before sending an autistic child out into the world, introduce them to the local police. Provide the police with a photo and any important information they might need should something come up. Consider providing your loved one with an ID that includes name, address, contact information, and diagnostic information. They may never use the card, but it’s a safeguard.
• Preview your route. No matter where you’re traveling, spend some time getting to know the route. Will you need to cross streets at lights? Will you need to communicate with someone like a bus driver? The more you know in advance, the easier it will be to help your autistic loved one.
• Think through potential challenges, and brainstorm solutions. For example, if your autistic loved one is not good at telling time, could you set an alarm to help them be ready for transportation on time?
• Create (or find) a social story. Social stories are simple illustrated stories that preview a planned event or task. More advanced social stories provide options in case of unexpected changes. For example, “If the bus doesn’t come by 10:45, I can call home and ask for help.” Also, you can look for videos that show the general process of (for example) catching a bus or taking a plane.
• Practice as often as necessary. Work with your loved one (or their aide if they have one) to travel the route together as often as necessary to help them feel comfortable with the process and the people. Practice coping with common challenges (the bus is late, for example) or emergencies (the plane was canceled). Always provide your loved one with a “Plan B” in case problems arise.
• Use roleplay to plan for expected challenges. Pretend you’re a bus driver asking for a fare, or a crossing guard saying, “Wait for cars to pass." Ask typical questions of your loved (“Are you getting off here?”) and have them practice typical questions (“When will the train arrive?”).
• Take it slow. Before sending your loved one off solo, give them the opportunity to take the lead. Support them as they think through the process of leaving on time, using transportation, and arriving at their destination. Then meet them at the destination. Do this as many times as necessary.

Group vs. Solo Travel Training

Travel training is often offered by schools and programs for people with special needs. Of course, such training is offered in group situations: learners work together to solve problems and overcome challenges with the support of a staff person.

Remember that group travel training is not the same as individual training. In groups, there is always the possibility that someone besides your loved one will take the initiative, give direction, or—alternatively—create problems. While group training can be valuable, it can’t take the place of individual learning.

Safety First

Nothing is more important for your loved one’s welfare than safety. By its very nature, however, independent travel carries risks. As you think about your loved one’s abilities and needs, it’s usually best to err on the side of safety, particularly if your loved one:

• Reacts badly to changes in schedule, route, driver, etc.
• Has difficulty communicating with strangers or asking/answering questions
• Is likely to exhibit unexpected behaviors when feeling anxious or stressed
• Is particularly vulnerable to negative behaviors such as bullying or scams. (We are all vulnerable at some level, but if your loved one is easily led or upset, the danger is greater.)

Before your child travels solo, practice safety procedures. Specifically:

• Calling a parent, guardian, or other well-known adult for help
• Asking for help from an authority such as a bus driver
• Handling a missed bus, train, etc.
• Interacting with an authority figure such as TSA or police officer

Tips and Resources for Specific Types of Travel

Most autistic people can and should be able to walk around the neighborhood or through a grocery store independently. Many can use public transportation, including buses, trains, and planes, with appropriate support. There are also support organizations that can help with travel by air, sea, and ride-sharing.

A limited number of autistic people can safely drive a car. That’s not because autistic adults can’t master the physical process of driving (many can), but because safe driving requires an ability to “read the mind” of other drivers who may be driving erratically, stopping short, or otherwise creating hazards.

Bus and Train Travel

Both bus and train services are set up to provide discounted travel to people with special needs, so it’s well worth checking into and signing up for local discounts. Bus and train travel may be the best option for your loved one, but it can be complex.

In some cases, your autistic loved one may have to switch from one route to another to get to their destination. If they run late, they may have to read schedules to find the next bus or train. Bad weather can make buses and trains late, and connections may be missed. These challenges aren’t minor.

If your loved one is planning to use bus and/or train transportation, you may want to take advantage of group travel training programs that focus on these skills locally. In addition, you’ll want to teach skills in a safe setting and move forward slowly toward independence.

These tips may help:

• Start by researching your local transportation systems so that you know the routes, options, and disability services available.
• If there are disability services that can help your loved one, and your loved one is willing to use them, then take advantage of them.
• If your loved one needs to learn a specific route, take it yourself ahead of time in good and bad weather. Take pictures along the way and consider making videos of the process.
• Use the pictures to create a discreet social story flipbook that your loved one can consult; go through it several times with your loved one. Use the video to show and discuss the process.
• Ride with your loved one several times as they take the route. Then meet them at their destination when they’re ready to ride alone.
• If you anticipate bad weather or delays, practice working through these with your loved one. Allow your loved one to take the lead in managing and solving the problems so they know what to do when the time comes.
• Be sure your loved one knows how and when to contact you should an issue arise. Buses and trains can be canceled or changed, accidents can happen, and your loved one should have a simple “Plan B” they can follow if needed.

Air travel, oddly enough, can be far less complex than bus or train travel, especially if the journey will require no connections. In addition, there are groups such as Wings for Autism that work with airports and airlines to ensure accessibility.

Of course, your loved one must be able to sit for the period required, communicate verbally, and engage in simple conversation with the people around them.

These tips may be helpful:

• Connect with the airline and airport in advance, and be sure you know what accommodations are available for an autistic person. Often they can get preferential status in terms of security lines, boarding, and support while on the airplane.
• Ask whether you can set up a time to take your loved one to the airport and do a “dry run” through security. The airport may allow this, and/or they may work with groups that provide this type of experience. Wings for Autism runs events that take "passengers" all the way through the airport to the plane.
• In most cases, a caregiver can accompany a disabled person to the gate, and it’s also possible for another person to meet the traveler at the destination gate. Just ask in advance. That means your loved one’s job is literally to sit on the plane, have a snack, and deplane.
• If your loved one is comfortable with it, tell the TSA officer in your security line about your loved one's condition. TSA officers are carefully trained to manage challenging situations and will make an effort to smooth the experience.
• Be sure your loved one understands the rules and expected behavior aboard a plane. For example, they should understand that they should never leave their bags unattended, that they must follow any instructions given aboard the plane, and that conversation with a neighbor should be friendly but not intimate.
• If possible, fly the planned route with your loved one at least once. Take photos and make videos as possible to help your loved one remember exactly what to expect.

Ride-Sharing

While it can be hard to find a taxi in many small towns, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are almost everywhere. They can provide independent transportation for a fee, and the apps make the process almost seamless.

Ride-sharing can be the ideal answer to getting to and from work in a semi-rural area. In some cases, it is possible to find funding for a disabled Uber or Lyft user through adult services.

As with every form of independent travel, there are risks associated with ride-sharing. Many, however, have been eliminated by the addition of clear safety features:

• Autistic riders do not need to carry cash.
• The app makes the transaction, so there is no need to go through the process of negotiating, paying, or managing change.
• It is possible to track your ride on the app; even better, it’s possible to see a picture of the driver and their credentials ahead of time.
• It’s easy for parents or guardians to follow the process of independent travel using their smartphone.
• Uber will provide rides to support animals with their owners.

To support ride-share use, be sure to:

• Download the app and use the ride-share service yourself so you know what to expect.
• Help your loved one download the app, load a credit card, and call a driver.
• Ride with your loved one until they are comfortable with the process.
• Meet your loved one at the end of their first few independent rides.
• Use the available features to track your loved one’s rides. If there is an issue, you’ll be able to step in or provide reassurance as needed. (Traffic jams and new drivers can be anxiety-provoking, though they’re not actually dangerous.)

Driving is probably the toughest form of independent transportation for autistic people. It requires an understanding of technical details and rules. But it also—and more significantly—requires an ability to bend the rules when necessary.

Drivers need to guess what other drivers will do , observe pedestrians and animals, and react accordingly. In the case of an accident, they will likely need to interact with police.

If your loved one truly wants to drive and you believe they have the intellectual, emotional, and social skills necessary:

• Go through an accredited driver’s education school.
• Communicate with the school ahead of time, and be sure the instructor has experience working with autistic learners.
• Help your loved one understand the challenges, and role-play potential difficult situations.
• As with any independent situation, be sure your loved one knows who to contact in an emergency, how to handle ordinary challenges (filling the gas tank, handling a breakdown, avoiding hitchhikers), and how to interact properly with others in the case of an accident.

Autistic people can benefit from travel training so they can travel independently. The mode of transportation will depend on the person’s abilities. Some challenges are common for all travel modes, while there are specific challenges and benefits for bus or train travel, ride-sharing, air travel, and driving.

Lubin A, McGackin M, Feeley C. Transportation & mobility issues: a report on the needs and barriers of adults on the autism spectrum . Rutgers. April 2019.

Myers RK, Carey ME, Bonsu JM, Yerys BE, Mollen CJ, Curry AE. Behind the wheel: specialized driving instructors’ experiences and strategies for teaching autistic adolescents to drive .  Am J Occup Ther . 2021;75(3):7503180110p1. doi:10.5014/ajot.2021.043406

By Lisa Jo Rudy Rudy is a writer, consultant, author, and advocate who specializes in autism. Her work has appeared in The New York Times and Autism Parenting Magazine.

Preparing for a Beach Vacation – Autism Social Story.

Prepare your child for a trip to the shore with this autism social story.

We are currently using this autism social story to prepare a beautiful child, who happens to have autism, for her first beach experience. For the purposes of this post, we are going to call her Sandy.

Both of Sandy’s parents have really fond memories of their childhood summer vacations to the shore. They enjoyed the sun, sand and surf during the day and the sights, sounds and sensations on the boardwalk at night. It was something they looked forward to during the long days of winter every year. They have always wanted Sandy to have the same beach vacation experiences, but Sandy, age 6, has never been to the shore. Her parents were concerned about her behavioral issues that arise from a broken routine and from some sensory issues (loud sounds and textures). Sandy has been responding very well to occupational, behavioral and speech therapies for the last two years, so her parents have confidently rented a beach house for a week in Ocean City in August.

I too have vary fond memories of the shore as a kid and as a parent, so when I heard their plans, I was thrilled for Sandy. I told Sandy’s parents about the success that we have had using social stories to prepare children with autism for new experiences like taking their first plane ride or going to their first Phillies game . I promised to create a social story to help. The beach and the ocean are some of God’s greatest gifts to us, so it should be experienced by every one. “ Preparing to go to the shore ” was created for Sandy and for all children with autism.

Sandy’s parents plan to talk about the trip with their daughter at the same time every day with the autism social story as a guide. At Kidmunicate, we will use the “ Preparing to go to the shore ” social story during therapy sessions with Sandy too.

See the picture social story below or download the PDF Kidmunicate Social Stories: Preparing to go to the shore . If you want the Powerpoint presentation to customize the story for your child’s specific needs, send us an email.

The Kidmunication Point

New experiences are difficult for many children with autism. Many parents avoid new experiences because the children are happier when they are settled into a routine. This is understandable, but children with autism, like all children, need to experience new things in order to learn. The key is pre-planning. Picture social stories are a great tool to use to prepare your child for any new experience. “Preparing to go to the shore” is our newest social story. A week at the beach in the summer is an annual event for most families around here. Children with autism should experience the surf, sand and the boardwalk, if they can handle the sensorial aspects of a beach vacation like noise, sand, salt water, crowds, etc.

Note: We also use social picture stories for children with anxiety and/or sequencing issues.

Here are 13 tips to prepare your autistic child for a trip to the shore.

• We recommend that you read the story every day at the same time during the weeks leading up to the trip
• Customize the picture story by adding or eliminating elements that are not relevant for your child.
• For your child’s first shore trip, you might want to go for a day trip in June or September when it is less crowded.
• Buy some sand and let your child touch the sand and play with it. Let them play with both dry and wet sand. Show them how easy it is to wash off.
• Sun protection during your beach time is very important, so apply suntan lotion at home to get them used to that sensation and smell.
• Remember that ocean water is salty, so you might want to bring some goggles.
• The sand can get hot, so you might want to bring flip-flops. Practice walking in them at home.
• When you are ready to go, pack some familiar and comforting items to distract your child during the long car ride, like an Ipad, stuffed animals or action figures.
• It’s a good idea to pack comfort items from his or her room at home for the beach house to make it look more familiar. (For example, his or her favorite sheets, pillow or blanket, etc.)
• Tell your child that they can put them on whenever they want.
• These may be useful on the beach and the boardwalk
• Access to food might require a long walk across a hot beach and / or a long wait in lines. A packed snack just might save the day.
• Let your child get used to the sensation of the sand and the surf.
• Inform the life guard that your child has special needs and may not respond to commands appropriately.
• The rides are not very crowded during the day.
• Going to the bathroom. Find a beach location close to a restroom.
• Waiting in line for food.
• Sudden loud noises. (Ice cream truck bells, kids screaming, life guard whistles)
• Relax let your child be him or herself. It’s the beach and boardwalk not a quiet theater.

Click here to return to other social stories.

About the Author: Pam Drennen MS CCC-SLP

One Comment

Very helpful. Thanks.

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Pre-Order Only Due to the stay-at-home orders in response to COVID-19, our office is currently closed. Orders will be shipped from our office in Chicago, IL as soon as normal operations resume. We know you’re eager to receive your apparel, and we're grateful for your patience during this time.

Description

BONUS : Includes our Top 10 Travel Destinations Handout for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sensory Processing Disorder!

Use this social story with your client or child to help them understand the steps of flying on an airplane! Carrying luggage, going to the airport, and boarding a plane can feel unfamiliar and upsetting. With explanations and descriptive images of each step of the process, this social story will help your client or child feel at ease while traveling in no time.

How to Use:

Read through the social story together with your client or child. Read the story before planning a trip, packing bags, or going to the airport. Continue to read the story whenever your client or child has questions about traveling on a place. This social story can be customized to fit the needs of each child by including or excluding certain pages depending on their needs and age.

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