Sensory disorders
neurodiversity
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) - Down syndrome - Anxiety - Panic.
There are no barriers we cannot overcome!
So many doubts and fears!
People with various sensory, intellectual, and developmental disorders struggle to cope with change.
They usually have an established routine, and any change, no matter how small, can increase their stress levels.
Traveling is synonymous with constant change; however, the stress this can generate can be reduced by preparing ahead of time.
The importance of family
For all of us (and especially those with disorders), family members are considered essential components of our development and growth, and their presence can be crucial when planning leisure activities.
These leisure and tourism activities not only have a positive impact on the person with disorders but also on other family members.
Practice makes perfect:
A few early rehearsals with short outings and trips will serve as a test, providing us with a wealth of information for future, longer trips.
Fundamental: A good organization
Make a list of places to visit
As long as you prepare in advance, any location will do. Aside from your own interests, prioritize those that meet your accessibility needs.
Choosing the best dates and times
Travel during the off-season and visit parks during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and avoid unnecessary lines and waits.
Research special services
Ramps, medical centers and specialized care, rest rooms, and everything we need to meet our needs.
Show photos of the place before the trip
Anticipating what we will see with images will help us feel calmer when we arrive, since it will be a “familiar” place.
It is not necessary to go through and know everything
The parks are huge and there are so many attractions. It's better to have small achievements and take it slow and easy! Ohmmmmm...
Respect meal and rest schedules
It is not necessary to change all your habits at once, and trying to maintain them without major changes will avoid unnecessary stress.
These cognitive and emotional components can make traveling more complicated:
Novel Environments
Airplanes, in particular, are a unique means of transportation, and their journey is unlike any other. For this reason, going to an airport for the first time can be overwhelming due to this environment.
Sensory Processing
As previously mentioned, airports are extremely sensorially stimulating environments, filled with auditory, visual, and tactile stimuli.
Queues, being close to other passengers, being separated from their belongings, and noise from other people and loudspeakers. In many cases, the use of noise-cancelling ear protectors, whether earbuds or simple silicone earplugs, is ideal.
Socializing
The various encounters and relationships you form with other people during your trip. Many tourist activities require socializing at some level: with other tourists, with staff or workers, etc.
Communication
Communication between people can be verbal or nonverbal. In either case, people with these specific disorders are characterized by difficulties in communication, both verbal and nonverbal, and this is especially true outside their usual environment. Picture cards (Picture Exchange Communication System – PECS), hand-held whiteboards, or tablets are especially useful in this case.
Availability of Information
Sometimes, the lack of information about adapted services is a barrier for people with disabilities and their families. We don’t always find timely and specific information to help us.
Tips for organizing your plane trip
Travel (especially air travel) is the most complicated part of the journey. So here are some recommendations that can help you make the whole process more stress-free.
American Airlines Porogram
Arrival at the airport
Use the drive to the airport to explain the upcoming process and begin preparing the most sensitive family member.
Try to arrive at the terminal early to avoid rushing, lines, and stress.
Check In at the counter
Check in online to obtain your boarding pass. Reserve your seat in advance so you can choose the best option for your needs (closest to the bathroom, window, etc.).
Most airlines offer priority service to people with disabilities. Remember to inform and request this in advance (See the Air Travel section).
Go through Security and Immigration
Inform security in advance so they know you're traveling with someone with a disorder, especially those with ASD (more sensitive individuals).
One of the responsible adults should go through the metal detector first so that when the person with a disorder passes through, someone is waiting on the other side.
Waiting and boarding lounges
Choose a place away from the hustle and bustle to wait for the plane in complete peace and quiet. You can take advantage of this opportunity to buy your child a book or a toy to help them wait. A small gift or treat is always welcome!
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Take advantage of the opportunity to make yourself more comfortable while waiting in a cafe, food court, or, even better, a VIP lounge.
During the flight
They can choose whether to board at the front or the back. In general, it's preferable to wait quietly and board last, with the rest of the passengers already seated and without constant movement in the aisle.
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Notify the flight attendants in advance that you are traveling with a person with special needs. During the flight, prepare a full range of items to keep them distracted and occupied: tablets, books, notebooks, cards, etc.
