Holidays are a time to create precious family memories, but for parents of autistic children, they can come with a unique set of challenges. At Seven Care Services, we understand the importance of making family holidays more manageable and enjoyable. Here’s our guide with practical tips to help you prepare for your trip, reduce anxiety, and make the most of your holiday.
✈️ 1️⃣ Plan and Prepare Together
Involve your child in planning the holiday. Show them photos of the destination, talk through the journey, and explain what will happen each day. Visual supports like social stories, photo books, or a countdown calendar can help your child feel more comfortable with the upcoming changes.
💡 Tip: If your child has sensory sensitivities, research the location in advance—are there quiet areas, is there access to their favourite foods, and are there any autism-friendly activities?
🧳 2️⃣ Pack Familiar Comforts
Familiar items can be a lifeline for your child in unfamiliar environments. Bring along favourite toys, sensory items (like fidget toys, noise-cancelling headphones, or weighted blankets), and even familiar bedding if you can.
💡 Don’t Forget: A sensory toolkit for travel, including ear defenders and sunglasses, can make journeys more manageable.
🏖️ 3️⃣ Maintain a Routine (Where Possible)
Holidays often mean changes to the usual routine, but try to keep to a loose structure where possible—like regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and quiet times.
💡 Tip: Create a simple visual schedule of daily activities to help your child know what to expect.
✈️ 4️⃣ Autism-Friendly Travel Support in the UK
The UK is becoming increasingly autism-aware, and many airports and airlines have introduced initiatives to support autistic children:
Airports: Many UK airports, including Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, and East Midlands, offer Hidden Disability lanyards. Wearing one signals to staff that your child may need additional support, such as extra time at security or assistance during boarding.
Airlines: Carriers like British Airways, EasyJet, and Jet2 have made efforts to improve accessibility, offering priority boarding and staff training for hidden disabilities. Some airlines provide visual guides or social stories to explain the flying process.
Quiet Rooms and Sensory Maps: Several airports, like Gatwick and Heathrow, offer quiet spaces and sensory guides for families.
💡 Tip: Contact the airline and airport in advance to ask about their autism-friendly provisions and request assistance.
🚗 5️⃣ Prepare for the Journey
Whether you’re travelling by car, train, or plane, prepare your child by explaining what to expect. If possible, do a practice trip to the station or airport.
💡 Tip: Bring snacks, water, sensory toys, and activities. Be ready for delays or changes, and have a backup plan to reduce stress.
🌳 6️⃣ Choose Autism-Friendly Destinations
Some UK destinations offer fantastic autism-friendly experiences, such as:
Merlin Attractions (e.g., Alton Towers, Legoland) offering Ride Access Passes
The National Autistic Society’s directory of autism-friendly venues
Sensory-friendly cinemas, quiet hours at museums, and nature reserves that allow for calmer exploration
💡 Tip: Call ahead to venues and ask how they can support your child’s needs.
🧘 7️⃣ Pace Yourselves
Holidays don’t have to be jam-packed. Allow for downtime and be flexible with your plans. Less is often more when travelling with an autistic child.
💡 Remember: It’s okay to change plans or take a step back. A calm child equals a more enjoyable holiday for everyone.
💙 8️⃣ Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting an autistic child can be exhausting, especially on holiday. Make sure you take time to rest and recharge too—whether it’s a quiet cuppa in the evening or asking for help when you need it.
🌈 We’re Here to Support You
At Seven Care Services, we know that every child and every family is unique. Our team of autism specialists is here to support you—whether you need guidance on holidays, managing daily routines, or understanding your child’s needs.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help, get in touch with us today. Together, we can make family holidays more enjoyable and less stressful.
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