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Parenting a child with autism comes with unique joys and challenges, and for many families, travel can feel like an overwhelming task. But what if travel could be a source of joy, growth, and connection for both you and your child? In this episode, I sit down with Ms. Dina Farmer, a military spouse and mother of two children on the autism spectrum, to explore how families can make travel a rewarding and accessible experience.
Travel as an Opportunity, Not a Limitation
Many parents hesitate when it comes to travel, fearing that the changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, or sensory overload might be too much for their child. Dina encourages us to shift our perspective. Travel isn’t just about getting from one place to another—it’s an opportunity for enrichment, learning, and even self-care.
She reminds us that the key is preparation. Whether it’s a small outing to a nearby park or a cross-country trip, creating predictability can ease anxiety. Start small, gradually introducing new environments, and allow your child to build confidence over time.
Start Small: Building Confidence Through Local Adventures
Big trips can feel daunting, so Dina suggests starting with what’s close to home. Visiting a local attraction, spending a day at a quiet park, or practicing short car rides can help your child get used to the idea of traveling in a safe and familiar way. Small victories lead to big successes.
By gradually increasing the length and complexity of these trips, families can set the foundation for bigger adventures. This approach allows parents to observe their child’s needs, adjust strategies, and ensure travel remains a positive experience.
The Role of Respite Care in Travel
Many families, especially military families, may have access to respite care services. This can be a game-changer when traveling. Some parents feel guilty using respite care, but Dina reframes it as an essential support system—one that helps the entire family enjoy their experiences.
Sometimes, taking separate trips or traveling in a way that meets each family member’s unique needs is the best approach. Parents don’t have to feel pressured to experience every trip together as one unit. It’s okay to create individual moments with each child to cater to their strengths and interests.
Travel as a Tool for Growth
Dina shares a touching example of how travel has impacted her own children. Simple experiences—like meeting characters at Disney—became opportunities for communication and connection. Whether it’s visiting a sensory-friendly museum, taking a quiet nature walk, or exploring a favorite interest (like anime in Japan!), travel can support social, emotional, and cognitive development in ways we may not expect.
When we focus on our child’s strengths and what brings them joy, we can create meaningful and memorable experiences that enhance their confidence and independence.
Building a Supportive Community
Travel is not just about the destination—it’s also about the journey. That journey is so much easier when you have a community that understands and supports you. Dina’s platform, Spectrum Getaways, is a fantastic resource where families can find guidance, services, and encouragement from others who share similar experiences.
By connecting with other parents, sharing insights, and seeking resources, we remind ourselves that we’re not alone. Every child and every journey is unique, but through support and shared knowledge, we can make the world a more accessible and welcoming place for our children.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re feeling inspired to explore the world with your child, tune in to this heartfelt and practical conversation. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full interview on YouTube. Let’s take this journey together!
With love,
Dr. Hokehe Eko.
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