While vacations are something to look forward to, they can also be a source of anxiety for many of us.  A lot of forethought and preparation goes into any vacation; add in the extra challenge of travelling with a child or children with special needs, and the idea of going away for a week can become quite daunting.  While traveling with a special needs child can be quite challenging, parents should not let their child’s disabilities keep them at home.  Here are some pointers on things you can do to make your vacation go as smoothly as possible.  No matter where or how far you go to get away, preparation is always the key to reducing the stress and angst of leaving the familiar

First, do your research, solicit advice from experienced parents of special needs children, or find a travel agent who understand the needs of our family, and choose a destination.  Vacation destinations are becoming more sensitive and proactive to the needs of their special guests.  Using the internet, you can find literally hundreds of links to places (beach and winter resorts camping sites, cruises ships, national parks, etc.) dedicated to serving the needs of your child and family. Within these websites, you can read the lists of service amenities and accommodations available to your child and family, from having simple gluten-free food menus to having trained and experienced staff members available (even babysitters) to assist you and your child in recreational activities

When traveling by car, plan the highway route to your destination before your departure.  Using a map or GPS locate rest areas or places for bathroom breaks along the way.  Mark places along your route where you can stop and take extended breaks before your child get cranky and restless.  Pack a cooler or buy lunch to-go along the way and find a nearby picnic area where kids can run around and let off steam before getting back into the car.  As much as you want to have enough entertainment in the back seat, leave enough space to keep children from being crowded. 

When traveling by train or plane, call the carriers directly to see what kind of support they offer to families requiring extra help.  Checking off the special services box when booking online isn’t enough. At the ticketing counters employees will direct you to special services areas, and oftentimes, someone will help your family board and help stow your luggage or equipment. 

Regardless of your mode of travel, don’t forget to pack entertainment.  Bring books headphones, iPad or tablet, or other entertainment for the ride.  Download a few new apps or movies before your trip.  You know your child better than anyone.  Take along whatever your children will need to entertain themselves along the way. 

Travelling with children is tough—be patient!  When traveling with any child, it gets easier with every trip because they now have their routine down to a science.  Your first big trip will have its challenges, so take heart-the more you travel, the better everyone gets at it and the more fun you will have.  Traveling with a special needs child (and all children) takes a lot of planning and organization, but the benefits will far outweigh the work.