Holiday Planning Tips for Children with Autism

Holiday Planning Tips for Children with Autism

Having a child with autism requires some special arrangements when it comes to holiday planning, just like in many areas of life. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t have an unforgettable and enjoyable holiday! With proper planning and preparation, you can create a great experience for both your child and the entire family.

Pre-Holiday Preparation: Basic Steps

1. Destination Selection

When planning holidays with autistic children, destination selection is critically important. Choosing calm and controlled environments instead of very crowded and noisy places usually yields better results. Destinations like Antalya, which have natural beauty and autism-friendly facilities, are among the ideal options.

As Carefree Holiday, we chose Antalya’s calm and natural environment for this reason. Our facility, which offers low sensory stimulation, creates an atmosphere where your child can feel comfortable.

2. Accommodation Research

When choosing accommodation, consider the following factors:

• Sound level: Prefer facilities with quiet and calm areas
• Security: Closed and controlled areas where your child can move safely
• Flexibility: Facilities that are flexible in meal times and menu options
• Staff training: Staff with experience with special needs guests

3. Prepare Social Stories

Preparing social stories for your child before the holiday makes it easier for them to adapt to the new environment. In these stories, you can explain:

• Where you will go
• What will be done there
• What kind of program will be followed
• Who will be encountered

Support these topics with pictures.

Things to Consider During the Holiday

Routine and Structure

Since autistic children love routine, try to structure your holiday program as much as possible. It’s important to eat at the same times every day, create specific activity times, and maintain sleep schedules.

Considering Sensory Needs

Every child’s sensory needs are different. Some are affected by too many stimuli, while others need more stimulation. For your child:

• Bring headphones if they have sound sensitivity
• Keep familiar textures (blanket, toy) with you if they have tactile sensitivity
• Don’t forget sunglasses and hat if they are affected by visual stimuli

Flexible Planning

Make plans but be flexible. Be ready to change your program according to how your child feels that day. Some days it may be necessary to prefer calmer activities.

Activity Selection and Planning

Consider Your Child’s Interests

Include activities your child enjoys in your holiday program. If they love water, consider pool activities; if they love animals, consider options like horseback riding or nature walks.

Group Activities vs. Individual Time

Some children enjoy group activities while others prefer individual time. Try to create a balance suitable for your child’s character. The individual therapy sessions we offer at Carefree Holiday are very valuable at this point.

Rest Times

Be sure to plan rest times between activities. Autistic children may get tired more quickly and experience overstimulation.

Packing Tips

Familiar Items

Be sure to bring your child’s favorite toy, blanket, or comforting items. These familiar objects provide a sense of security in the new environment.

Sensory Tools

• Stress ball or fidget toys
• Headphones (for protection from noise)
• Favorite music
• Calming scents (like lavender oil)

Backup Plans

Make sure your child’s favorite snacks, backup foods for special dietary needs, and medications are in your luggage.

Dealing with Challenges

Be Prepared for Meltdowns (Crisis)

Crises may occur due to new environment and changes. In this case:

• Stay calm and take your child to a safe place
• Apply familiar calming techniques
• Give your child time to rest

Adopt a Flexible Approach

Everything may not go as planned and this is normal. The important thing is to use your adaptation ability and not hesitate to change plans by prioritizing your child’s needs.

The Carefree Holiday Difference

As Carefree Holiday, we know all these challenges faced by families with autistic children. Therefore:

• We have specially trained staff
• We offer programs suitable for individual needs
• We provide support to families
• We create a safe and controlled environment

Conclusion

Planning a holiday with an autistic child certainly requires extra attention and preparation. However, with the right approach and planning, it is possible to create unforgettable experiences for both your child and your family. Remember that every child is special and has their own needs. You know your child best.

With our holiday experience for families with special needs and our expert team, we are here to help you have a worry-free holiday. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information!

At Carefree Holiday, we work to ensure that every family has a safe and enjoyable holiday experience suitable for their special needs.