PFA Tips: Airports and Flying
By Shelly McLaughlin, Pathfinders for Autism
Download a printable version of “Airports and Flying”
“Take to the friendly skies.” I don’t remember whose tagline that was, but “friendly skies” could be up for debate by many families who have children with autism. Our kids might think airports have ‘strange’ and new rules, and airplanes are restrictive by nature. As with most of our children’s experiences, preparation plays a large role in the success of your flight.
Picture and read this
If you can, show your child pictures or video of the airport, airplane, and your destination. They may be especially important if you are not able to make a practice run. You can find general pictures of airport security by googling “airport security pictures”. Social stories are another good preparation tool. You could ask your child’s teacher or therapist to help draft one for you.
I swear, my child is not a terrorist
The anticipation of not knowing a procedure, or what to expect next can spike a child’s anxiety. Prepare your child for the security process at the airport. Help them understand that they will have to relinquish their shoes and favorite electronic device, but will get them back. Ease fears ahead of time that the pass-through metal detector will not shock or provide any harm. Go over key words that may not be used in airports or on planes – bomb, gun, terrorist, etc. (Unless of course that will only prompt the use of those words.) TSA Cares provides information on security procedures aimed to help passengers with disabilities, medical conditions and individuals needing additional assistance to better prepare for the security screening process.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces. More and more airports are participating in this program. Check if the airports you will be traveling through are members.
Do a practice run at the airport
You may want to consider scheduling a practice run at the airport so that the day you fly the airport procedures won’t be a new experience. Contact your airport’s customer service to see if that is available at your airport. BWI offers group tours through their Pathfinders (no relation) office. For more information, contact 410-859-7588.
Pre-board
Ask your airline if you are eligible for pre-boarding so that you aren’t trying to get situated amid the crowded boarding chaos.
Pick a preferred seat
With so many rules and regulations, there won’t be many choices, other than where they sit that your child can make. Would your child prefer to look out the window, or do heights make them nervous? Would an aisle seat provide them the amusement of watching the flight attendants, or would they be tempted to get up and run down the aisle? Bulkhead seats may offer a little more room if you can get them. Keep in mind that the very back of the plane is noisy.
Take along your car seat
Let’s face it – children, whether they have autism or not, don’t typically enjoy sitting for long periods of time. If you have a concern that your child may try to get up and run off, then take along their car seat. It’s already familiar to them and will keep them in their seat. If your child has a difficult time sitting still, talk to the flight attendants ahead of time to let them know that your child may do better if allowed to walk the aisle whenever the fasten seatbelt sign is off.
Stay busy
What will your child have to keep them busy during the travel time or maybe the wait time at an airport? Don’t forget to bring those favorite toys and activities, snacks or items that bring comfort to your child. Make sure you include some non-electronic items for those “turn off your electronics” times during the flight. Before you pack that bag, you may want to double check with your airline’s carry-on baggage rules.
Take care of those ears
Lots of people = lots of noise. Not to mention most of us are able to tune-out the noisy hum of the plane’s ventilation system. These sounds may be amplified for our kids, so you may want to bring a set of ear plugs or headphones. Bring gum or hard candy to help relieve popping in your child’s ears, or check with your doctor or pharmacist about ear drops.
Additional Resources:
Flying to See Janet: A Fun Guide to the Airport Experience
PFA Tips: Vacation Tips
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