Going on holiday is one of the best things to do as a family. It’s a lot of fun, there’s so many new things to do, and the kids can come home and make a big scrapbook of everything they got up to. Whilst planning a summertime holiday can be a bit stressful, you know you’re going to have a good time – and the kids especially!
However, if you’re a parent who lives with a disability, going on holiday can be a struggle. You want to go, you want the kids to have a good time, but you can worry a lot about how much pain you’ll be in or the way you might slow things down.
Or if you’re a parent of a child who has limited mobility or a developmental condition, you’re probably going to worry about how they’ll fare in a new destination. Crowds of tourists are one thing, but having to push your way through all the noise and congestion day by day can be incredibly overwhelming.
But none of this means you should skip going on holiday! Whether you or the kids need plenty of time to stop, rest, and take a breather, your next trip could be one of the best you’ve ever been on. Here are a few things to consider when planning to make sure of it.
Plan for Quiet Moments
Every holiday itinerary is packed with things to do. You want to get as much done in the days you’re away as possible, as it’ll make sure neither you nor the kids get bored. It also helps them settle down for a good night’s sleep at the end of the day!
But if you’re someone who needs time to rest their legs or your child needs time to take a few deep breaths and stay grounded, you’re going to need quiet moments as well. This is time away from the hum of the destination, where it’s just the few of you and it’s a lot more peaceful.
Without looking for opportunities for moments like these, it might become quite hard to actually get them. So don’t overcream the itinerary and scout out the places you want to visit on Google Maps ahead of time; at the very least you’ll be able to see how many benches are on offer.
Notify Any Travel Operators About Your Needs ASAP
If you’re going to be travelling by any other means than by car, you may need to talk to your travel operator about your needs.
If you have a wheelchair to take on an aeroplane, for example, you may need to tell them after booking the ticket, or a day or two before you actually arrive to board the flight.
This way you give the airline plenty of notice and you also find out what will and won’t be possible regarding any boarding help or accommodations when on the plane. And the same goes for travelling by boat.
This can take some stress out of the situation and let you know what you can likely expect; sometimes an uncertain travelling experience is the most anxiety provoking thing of all!
Pack Mobility Aids
Whether you use them regularly or just every now and then, mobility aids need to be with you when you’re on holiday. You can pack them in your suitcase for use when you touch down, but if you need them to get the holiday off to a good start in the train station or airport, go ahead!
Of course, some mobility aids can be a bit bulky and feel very difficult to take on holiday with you. Shopping for a smaller alternative may be a solution to this; mobility2you is the kind of shop to visit when you’re on the lookout for an aid that provides the right support but is also incredibly portable.
This will then give you absolute peace of mind over when and where you can have a five minute sit down, or when and where you and the kids can take a proper break and recharge for the rest of the day.
If You Need Medication, Take Extra Supplies
You’ve probably had a few experiences with medicine shortages before, where it’s taken a little while for a prescription to come through or you’re diabetic and have gone away camping for the weekend and completely forgotten to pack your insulin!
Let’s make sure a similar thing doesn’t occur when you’re on holiday with the kids! Pack more than you strictly need and have a doctor’s note in your bag, just in case anyone says anything about your supply.
If you’re going to be away for a week, take a week and half’s worth of medication, or double the amount if you’d really like some peace of mind over your supply. This way you can be sure you have enough to keep you or your child feeling safe and well, and if any delays occur, you won’t be out of luck.
Pack Ear Protectors and Fidget Toys
Ear protectors make a big difference to the way someone with sensory issues perceives the world. Suddenly it’s not such a loud and scary place; one the defenders are on, the worst of it is blocked out and not a problem anymore.
If anyone in your family has become emotional due to this kind of stimulus before, always have a set of headphones in your bag somewhere. And if you can, make sure there are a few fidget toys to play with too. These can help ground someone who feels unsteady and overwhelmed.
Family travel for less abled parents and children is getting easier year by year. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the simplest thing in the world to arrange! The more consideration you give elements like those above, the more enjoyable the trip will be for everyone. And remember, never let yourself or your child feel guilty for needing to find a quiet spot and take a break!