angelazizak, Author at YOUR AUTISM GUIDE

Your Autism Guide to Holiday World

May 23, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Thinking of trying out an amusement park with your autistic child?

Consider Holiday World in southern Indiana. It’s the perfect family getaway, even for special needs families. Discover the accommodations available in this autism guide to Holiday World.

Some of the best things are in the middle of nowhere…literally.

Rising out of the hills of southern Indiana in the small village of Santa Claus (yes, THAT “Santa Claus”) stand gravity-defying giant steel and wooden structures. Roller coasters, to be exact. Like the Griswold family making a pilgrimage to their beloved Wally World in the movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation”, many residents of the surrounding Midwest states make the annual journey to Holiday World.

But it’s not just the roller coasters that draw them. Holiday World is family-owned and designed specifically for the whole family in mind, including very small children. Its whimsical holiday-themed lands celebrate Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Fourth of July. It’s probably the only place in the world that kids can greet Santa Claus outside of the Christmas season. It’s a mix of old-fashioned carnival rides, world-renowned roller coasters, and one big water park—Splashin’ Safari. We usually come to Holiday World in May before Memorial Day, so even on a Saturday the lines for the rides were not too long. For this reason, we never considered getting a “Ride Boarding Pass” before. But I wanted to conduct a bit of research into how it was used and whether it was truly helpful for those on the autism spectrum.

Holiday World is an “autism friendly” amusement park. By my experience, hopefully you can gain some valuable insight into planning your own visit to Holiday World with your autism family.

Your Autism Guide to Holiday World Accommodations

Before I even left the house, I made sure to dig into their accommodations policy. Considering that they have a “Calming Room” and a “Ride Boarding Pass” for those who cannot wait in long lines, I would personally designate this park as “autism friendly”. I wanted to test that out when I arrived. We got there early considering we live in Eastern Standard Time and Holiday World is in Central Standard Time. They allow people into the parks 30 minutes before they “rope drop” the area to the main attractions. The kiddie rides near the entrance were actually running before official opening. Past the ticket takers to the left is “Holiday World Services” where you can ask for the “ride boarding pass” and any other accommodation needed. We did not have to present any evidence of diagnosis. They were very eager to accommodate and explained how it was used.

Special needs boarding pass for attractions

Boarding pass instructions and procedures

The purpose of the “ride boarding pass” is to assist guests in wheelchairs who cannot move through the queue or those who cannot wait in a typical line. No more than 4 people in the party can use this accommodation. Guests must use the exit to access the attraction. You can only get one return-time at any given time. We were told we would either (a) be let on the ride immediately or (b) be given a return time. For our first ride we were neither allowed immediate access nor given a return time. It took about 5 minutes for staff to acknowledge us and then another 20 minutes—standing in the hot sun—before we were permitted to ride. My autistic teens were upset with this arrangement. My son was embarrassed that we were not walking through the standard queue. Fortunately, they gave us our first choice of seating after they apologized profusely. I got the sense that the “boarding pass” was mostly originally designed for those with physical disabilities whose wheelchairs cannot move through the queues. I don’t know if they really accommodate those with strictly sensory-cognitive issues. I would have been happy to have been promptly acknowledged and then given a return time to come back later. After that ride my kids were adamant that we stand in a regular line like everyone else. It turned out to be a 45-minute wait. Oh well…at least we were in the shade. Unfortunately, Holiday World does not have signs indicating how long wait times are for each attraction. It also does not have signs indicating which rides accommodate those with autism or other disabilities and where to go (like Disney parks do). With the “ride boarding pass” handy, however, you know exactly which attractions allow return-times.

Your autism guide to a fun-filled family adventure

1. Know your child’s time-limit for waiting.

If your child can wait up to 30 minutes or more then you will be fine without needing to use the “ride boarding pass”. If it’s less, be sure to grab it from Services.

2. Ask for a return time right away.

When you use the boarding pass, be sure to ask the ride attendant immediately and politely whether you can go right away or need a return time. Just standing there hoping they see you may not work in your favor. Flag them down if necessary.

3. Assess the wait time by observing the pace of lines.

When you get to the ride, take a few minutes to observe the speed of the queue. See how many ride operators are attending guests. The Scarecrow Scrambler did not seem to have a long queue, but it was moving very slowly with only one attendant. Many rides seem to only have one attendant, in fact. Be sure to ask for a return time for attractions with slow moving or long queues and with only one attendant.

4. Take advantage of conveyor-type attractions.

Rides that are on conveyor systems and/or hold more people in the vehicle (roller/water coasters, water rides, dark rides, etc.) tend to have faster queues than those that can only get a small group of people on at one time. You may not need to use the “ride boarding pass”. On the other hand, be aware that lines for certain seats on the roller coasters will be extra-long. If your autistic child is dead-set on riding at the very front or very back, warn him or her that it will take longer. Time the wait for middle-seat lines, then multiply by 3, if you need to use a visual timer while waiting in line.

5. On hot afternoons, head to the shady area attractions with little or no waits.

On particularly hot days most people head to the water-park. This leaves the rest of the park with little or no wait for their attractions. Head to the areas that have more shade, such as 4^th of July, Halloween, and Holidog’s Funtown (for younger kids). Wait times were 20 minutes or less; for most rides we got on the next time around.

6. Take advantage of their “calming room”.

Holiday World has a “Calming Room” at the First Aid Station located at the entrance to Splashin’ Safari. If you anticipate needing a place for your child to relax after intense sensory stimulation—or gets upset if his or her favorite ride is down at the moment—this is a great amenity for families needing a break.

It is first-come, first-served but you may not be waiting at all for the space. This large room has sound-proof panels, a padded floor mat, couches, bean bags, rocking chairs, dimmed lighting, and a tent. The only way you would know it’s here, however, is by asking Services where it’s located or finding that information on their website beforehand. There is no sign pointing out that a “Calming Room” is available there. It’s not even in the Park Map & Information guide. Most autism families most likely don’t know it’s even available.

7. Bring your own sensory tools.

You will need to bring personal sensory tools such as noise-cancelling headphones, fidgets, or music. Holiday World does NOT provide these items for you to borrow, so don’t leave home without them! The Calming Room does have a port for you to plug in for special music that soothes your child and allows them to hear it through the room speakers.

8. Take a break to see the shows or meet-and-greet some characters.

Grab a Show Guide at the entrance to what and when they are playing. Santa’s Storytime Theater and Hoosier Celebration Theater are well-shaded areas if you want to beat the heat.

9. Go to the park on less-crowded weekdays.

For fewer crowds, I recommend going during the middle of the week during the summer as well as before Memorial Day or after Labor Day. Many seasonal passholders come during the weekend, so if you can, try to come on those less expensive “off-days”.

10. Check out the gluten-free meal options.

If you have someone on a gluten-free diet, you can visit “George’s Gluten-free Pizza and Snacks” at the 4^th of July area.

Check out the list of allergen-free and gluten-free options here at this link. Consider eating before 11am and between 2pm-5pm for less wait for special orders.

11. Before you go, download the Accessibility Guide to get a sense of what each attraction is like.

To see if your child can handle the roller coasters and other ride-based attractions at Holiday World, I highly recommend you watch the Point-of-View videos on YouTube. (Click on the links below to watch a few.).

Sensory-Intense Attractions

Here are my two favorite coasters at Holiday World…which also happen to be the most intense:

1. The Voyage

The Voyage is the #3 top-rated wooden roller coaster in the world (TripSavvy). Aptly named, it is designed to make you feel like a pilgrim crossing the Atlantic in a hurricane, complete with the ability to make even the most die-hard roller coaster enthusiasts a bit motion-sick. (The back rows may enhance that likelihood of throwing up over the side.). I consider myself a roller-coaster aficionado, and the Voyage is the most intense roller coaster I have ever experienced. I go on it every time I visit! Love it! Sensory Experience: extremely intense—body-jarring/bumpy; very loud sounds from the coaster on the track; very high heights; very fast; “windy” sensation; few brief dark tunnels; may or will induce motion sickness. Anything not tied down will be lost, including noise-blocking headphones! Terrific for those sensory-seekers that get a thrill from roller coasters.

2. The Thunderbird

The Thunderbird is the first steel launch-winged coaster in the world. It explodes out of the gate to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, immediately going into an inverted vertical loop (aka…upside-down). To say this is “thrilling” is an understatement. With feet dangling in mid-air you feel like you are flying like a devil-bird. Unlike the wooden roller coasters, this one is a smooth ride. My daughter would not go on the Voyage after experiencing the Raven (another wooden coaster) but this one she really liked. I can handle the left side better than the right side of the coaster with the slow inverted turn at the end (get queasy on the right side). Sensory Experience: moderately intense—very fast launch; smooth ride; high heights; several upside-down turns; may induce motion sickness. Terrific for sensory seekers not afraid of upside-down roller coasters and heights.

Splashin' Safari is terrific for water-lovers

3. Splashin’ Safari There are plenty of play areas for little ones at this water park as well as a giant wave pool and some terrific water coasters like the Wildebeest and Mammoth (for which you can use the “ride boarding pass”). If your autistic child just absolutely loves waterparks, then he or she will have a blast here. Life-jackets are available on a first- come, first-served basis at the wave pool for children and adults (with chest sizes up to 52”). If you have an autistic adult with you and he or she is too big for their sizes, bring your own if necessary. Unfortunately, we have always skipped Splashin’ Safari. My kids prefer the land-rides and sometimes weather has not always cooperated for being in water. Sensory Experience: Sadly, I cannot review it from a sensory point-of-view. If you have ever been to a large waterpark like Great Wolf Lodge, then you have a sense of what it’s like…only outdoors, more to do, and in an even bigger area. Many people stay all day here and skip the land-rides. Be sure to watch point-of-view videos out there of their water-based attractions (see previous links).

Autism Friendly?

For the most part…YES. Holiday World does offer some nice amenities to those who can’t wait in long lines, need a sensory break, or have a special diet. They were eager to accommodate when they could. On the other hand…NO. We needed to advocate a little more using our “ride boarding pass”. In addition, their accommodations are not always apparent to the first-time guest or even those who have been coming a while like myself. I highly recommend you check out their website for more information before you go. Hopefully, this autism guide to Holiday World has alleviated some of your concerns in that regard as well.

Why I love Holiday World

The amusement park is unique in that it provides several FREE items: free drinks, free sunscreen, free parking, and free WiFi. It’s wonderful that they use preventative measures against sunburn and dehydration and make having fun affordable. The price of admission depends on day of the week and month, ranging from $29.99 to $49.99 on summer weekends. I love Holiday World! I dearly appreciate this park for trying to accommodate different needs and for the variety of attractions that will surely please everyone. I know you will, too!

An Autism Guide to Camping

May 16, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Camping with Autism: Tips for a Positive Experience

To ensure that things go smoothly on a vacation in the great outdoors for those with spectrum challenges, here is an autism guide to camping.

You will find important sensory considerations as well as advice on campsites and equipment that will help you make the best decisions when planning your trips.

Passing on a love of camping…with some “growing pains”

I loved camping as a small child. My first family vacations were at state parks and lakes in a pop-up camper. We hiked, cooked over a campfire, and went swimming, canoeing and fishing.

I have a deep nostalgia for what camping means: family bonding, respite from home activities, and a chance to rejuvenate in the relaxing outdoors.

Wanting to pass that love onto my own children, we decided to begin with tent camping. We chose a park about 30 minutes away. Our site was right on the edge small lake, so we could fish right off the bank.

Things went fairly well that first night…until about 5 a.m. the next morning. My daughter woke up screaming at the top of her lungs and could not be consoled. This caused my son to panic as well. We decided to just pack up and leave right at sunrise, fearing the wrath of our campground neighbors (hopefully) still asleep.

Extremely disappointed, we sort of…gave up for a while.

If only we were simply more realistic about camping to begin with we could have given it another go while they were young.

Now that my teenagers have successfully experienced tent-camping with the Scouts, we decided to invest in a pop-up camper. We love it! We cook over a fire and read books in hammocks; when it rains we play games inside the camper.

Hopefully our own camping experiences over the years will serve as a guide to help you decide how you should approach camping having autism in your own family.

Practical Advice for a Positive Camping Experience

1. Consider the “5-senses” of camping.

The smell of a campfire. The sight of a fire lighting up the night. Unless you are camping by yourselves in the middle of nowhere, then be prepared to encounter lots of other campers, too.

The level of these sensory experiences depends on the location of the campground and your individual campsite as well as the people around you.

Assess how your child’s sensory needs can be accommodated on a camp-out considering the five senses:

Sounds: range from quietly muted to loud, such as nearby site conversations; kids yelling to one another on their bikes; loud diesel trucks going by; sounds of birds and other animals; dogs barking; etc.

Sights: range from minimal stimulation to moderately high, such as a private tree lined site to wide open spaces with lots of games and other social activity between people of different campsites. Some campgrounds form little communities of people of who come back year-after-year.

Tactile: Some camping pads are gravel rocks with some dirt or grass while others are a smooth concrete pad. Handling wood or sitting on a rough picnic table may irritate some. If your autistic child likes deep pressure, then swing hammocks are a perfect way to relax.

Smell: most smells are muted, but others can be strong like smoky campfires and fuels from cars driving by while others are very pungent (think “outhouse”).

Taste: if your child is sensitive to different waters, then bring your own water. Most full-hookup sites have water available, but you may want to use it only for external purposes (i.e. washing).

2. Choose the right location.

So much of your experience depends on the location of the campground and your site within it. Find out the level of accessibility for personal needs, safety, and recreational amenities.

Some campgrounds have websites or videos of their sites to show what it’s like. Or, call the campground for more info. (Poor Farmer’s RV campground in Ohio is one that serves both short- and long-term campers.)

Ask yourself these questions:

Is the campground and/or some sites completely in a wooded area or in full sun? This can be a critical element if someone in the family is sensitive to sun and heat.

Does it have natural privacy barriers and plenty of space between sites, or is there very little privacy?

What is the terrain like? Rough, steep, or flat?

Does it have access to water and electricity or will you be totally roughing it?

Does the campground and site fully accommodate someone who needs a wheelchair or other medical equipment?

Is there WiFi available in case of emergency (or can you easily reach someone at the campground office)? Many state and national parks have limited or no internet access while private campgrounds may have WiFi available for guests.

Is your site accessible to other activities and restaurants or is it pretty remote?

Are pets allowed? What rules are in place if dogs are allowed?

If your child is a runner, would you be able to get help right away?

Is the location near water if your child is not yet a swimmer?

Would you feel comfortable giving your child some room to explore the campground on his or her own?

3. Assess your accommodation needs.

Your camp experience can range from living like a pioneer in a makeshift tent to “glamping” like a rock star in a mini-apartment on wheels. Consider your family’s needs and previous experience staying in places away from home.

Could they actually “rough it” or would they need a more familiar setting like your own home? Here are some pros and cons of each type of camping accommodation:

TENTS…

Pros—cheap; relatively easy to set up; can be brought on a plane; set up anywhere; ideal for getting into remote places with fewer people.

Cons—may not be fully weather proof (rain, wind, cold, heat); little room to move, sit, stand; may not sleep comfortably; tight quarters for a large family or older kids; may need to bring a lot of loose items to camp.

POP-UP CAMPERS…

Pros—compact and lighter to tow (most cars); cheaper than most campers; queen or king-size beds; can sleep a whole family; often includes sink, stove and possibly a shower/toilet area.

Cons—smaller space than a travel trailer; takes at some time and effort to set up; canvas can tear and have holes; may not have access to some campgrounds (especially those out West if bears are a concern); not suitable to keep pets inside if you leave; may not have a toilet.

TRAVEL TRAILERS…

Pros—not much to set up; can store items inside; fits most campsites (depending on size); can take your vehicle to go places; full bathrooms and decent size kitchen areas; great for longer vacations (week or more).

Cons—need a larger truck or SUV to pull; new campers can be expensive; some beds actually smaller than they appear in photos; may require a lot of gas to tow.

RVs….

Pros—very little to set up; “home-on-wheels” style comfort with nicer kitchens, beds and bathrooms (maybe even washer/dryer); large space (especially bump-outs); ideal for long-term camping (weeks to months).

Cons—very expensive; may not fit in some campgrounds; must tow a separate vehicle if you want to go other places; expensive to repair/can break down while traveling; various states have different restraining laws when traveling in an RV (children must still be in a car seat facing forward which can be a problem in an RV—best if they ride in a separate vehicle).

4. Be prepared.

Plan and budget well. Get to know the campground and local area well before setting off. Pack what you need and find out if you can purchase items you missed at a nearby store.

Find out about all the amenities of the campground. Do they have electric/water hookups? Pool? Bike rentals? Horseback riding? Boating? Hiking trails? Playgrounds? Campground sponsored games and activities? Seasonal events? A nice view? A campground store?

What is your total budget? What is the cost of gas, food, campsite, rentals? Be sure to check out all the “extras” you’d like to do, not only at the campground but also the local area (i.e. museums, restaurants, shopping, etc.).

If your child wants to swim but needs assistance, take swim lessons. Learn to ride a bike before camping. Buy the necessary equipment to make sure everyone is safe.

Be sure to pack comforting sensory items if camping is new and strange for your autistic child.

5. Be realistic about what your family can handle.

If you are completely new to camping (i.e. never even been inside a tent or camper), then consider renting a camper. Some campgrounds will even have their own campers available for you to rent. Others, like Fort Wilderness at Walt Disney World, will allow you to rent a camper that is brought in and set up by a local company. You get the benefits of camping without all of the work.

Buying camp gear is a big investment! Consider how many days out of the year you’d like to camp and how much time, effort and work you want to put into setting up camp. Do you want the old-fashioned camping experience of sleeping on the ground and cooking outside or do you want to be more comfortable in a nature setting? Are you in this for the long haul or just want to experiment with camping? Ask yourself these questions to figure out the type of camping equipment you need.

Assess the skills, interests and patience of everyone in the family. What safety skills does your autistic child have? Do they need supervision while swimming, biking, walking, etc.? If you plan for certain activities but someone suddenly doesn’t want to participate, have a back-up plan. Ease into the experience if this is new for most members of the family (especially children with autism). Camping requires learning different skills, so be gentle with yourself and others.

If your family is miserable despite efforts to make it enjoyable, don’t be afraid to “throw in the towel”. It doesn’t mean you won’t be able to camp again—make adjustments for the next time (i.e. location, number of days, type of sleeping arrangements, etc.). Maybe staying in a cabin instead of a camper would be best.

Unwind…

Successful camping experiences actually take a bit of practice.

It took our family three times of setting up and tearing down the pop-up camper to feel comfortable with the process (and not get upset with one another). We wanted a step-up from tent sleeping without losing the more traditional camping experience. My kids appreciate the large king-size beds. I love the heat and air conditioning.

We still tent-camp with the Scouts. But having a comfortable camper allows us to relax and sleep a little better. When we retire, I’d love to get a travel trailer for longer excursions to places on my bucket-list.

Camping is a wonderful way for families to reconnect by “unplugging” and interact with one another more. You can relax for a little while without the burden of each person’s different daily routines and other home obligations.

Even if it’s only for a weekend, short trips are often what is needed to feel rejuvenated from everyday life.

With the right planning and attitude, camping can be a joyful, memorable experience!

National Park Access Pass for Autism

May 10, 2019 Published by angelazizak

America the Beautiful Access Pass

What if I told you that there was a national park access pass for those with autism?

This little secret was hidden from me for the longest time. Ten years passed from first diagnosis until we actually discovered this. I lament the fact that if I had known about it sooner we would have taken advantage of all of the benefits that come with this Access Pass.

We would have traveled and explored the country way more than we did!

Of course, most agencies, hospitals, and schools that provide that initial diagnosis are not going to tell you about every single resource helpful for every stage of life. They may provide you a “what now?” book from an autism organization. Then you get sent on your merry way to navigate the massively complicated autistic world for yourself.

Good luck, matey!

I honestly can’t pinpoint the exact moment I found out the Access Pass. I’m pretty sure that it came from a Medicaid waiver agency representative who mentioned it nonchalantly in conversation. But I do distinctly remember my mind being blown.

Well, let me guide you to some clarity about this incredible governmental benefit. See for yourself what a wonderful gift this can be for autistic individuals and their families.

If you want to witness the grandest places in America, like the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone or the Smoky Mountains (for FREE!)—as well as receive deep discounts on camping and other recreational activities—apply for the America the Beautiful-National Parks & Federal Recreation Lands Access Pass today!

About the National Parks Access Pass for Autism and Other Special Needs

What can you do with the Access Pass? You can gain entrance into any associated federal recreation program for FREE that accepts it. This includes:

National Park Service (includes all national parks, national historic sites and others)
US Forest Service (includes national forests that have camping, hiking, horseman’s camps and lakes)
Fish and Wildlife Service (outdoor recreation plus historical and archaeological sites)
Bureaus of Land Management (hunting, fishing and game shooting)
Bureau of Reclamation (mostly water recreation in the Western states)
US Corp of Engineers (many manage reservoirs)

What other benefits are provided by this Access Pass? You can get deep discounts on certain recreational activities, such as camping (50% discount), guided tours, and others such as boat launches.

Who can apply? Anyone with a permanent developmental disability. This includes those with autism-related diagnosis well as any other cognitive-sensory disorder. Any age can get the pass.

How do you apply? You need documentation of a diagnosis. They accept government-related documents, like proof of having the Medicaid waiver, but a doctor’s note should also do.

Where do you apply? You can apply through the USPS mail service by downloading this paper application or you can visit a local office that is listed as a participating federal recreation site.

How long is it good for? It is good for one’s entire lifetime.

How much is it? It’s free if you visit one of the federal offices; it’s $10 if you apply via mail.

What happens if I lose the card? Simply reapply for another one.

How do I find a good place for our family to visit? If you already know what type of setting or activities you’d like to do, you can explore the index page of the National Park Service. In Indiana we have the Indiana Dunes National Park near Chicago and the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial near the Ohio River in the south.

Accessing Recreational Opportunities

To access recreational opportunities at your favorite destinations, go to Recreation.gov to reserve camping, guided tours, and more. The site also includes a trip planner. So if you know the dates you want to travel and where you want to visit, it can give you several accommodation options. Once you have received your Access Pass, you can enter the ID number when you make reservation for the discount.

OR…if you not quite sure where and when you would like to travel, you can do some website exploration on the National Park Service site to see what ideas pop out for you.

Let’s say you and your family are really into early American history and have been studying the famous Clark family. Here is a trip scenario based on two very important figures during and after the Revolutionary War:

George Rogers Clark led an expedition across icy waters to force the British to surrender their fort at present-day Vincennes, thus capturing the entire Northwest Territory for the new American government in 1779. His memorial is a National Historical Park in Vincennes, Indiana.

Perhaps a little more famous is his brother, William Clark. Along with Merriweather Lewis and Sacagawea, he explored the lands west of the Mississippi River from 1804-1806. The Lewis & Clark Full Day Pacific Coast Trip includes seeing the lands their expedition saw over 200 years ago. With driving and self-guided walking tours, you can see history and nature come alive on the Lewis & Clark Historical Park and Trail.

The possibilities are endless! The National Park Access Pass for autism and other special needs makes it very affordable for families to have short getaways or longer vacations in some of the most stunning places on earth.

Dream Away!

Do you ever dream about taking your family to see the Grand Canyon? Or hiking through a Sequoia forest? Or camping in the Great Smoky Mountains?

With the Access Pass to national parks, there is no excuse for those with autism and other special needs NOT to travel!

So, start creating your “bucket list” of places you always dreamed about to begin your next adventure!

Involving Autistic Kids in Travel Planning

Involving Sensory Kids in Travel Planning

May 3, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Why Plan with Your Special Needs Child

There are several reasons why it’s best to consider involving autistic kids in travel planning, especially if one or more in the family have special needs.

In this article I’ll outline the biggest things you should and should not do when you get ready for a trip in light of the challenges that autism often brings.

Surprise!

Have you seen those videos in which very excited parents prepare to reveal a huge surprise to their family and friends?

Actually, I am NOT talking about those gender reveal parties.

I’m talking about those videos showing parents springing the news on their unsuspecting kids that they are about to go to Walt Disney World. And not in a few months… RIGHT NOW!

They wake their kids out of a dead-sleep, telling them to hurry up and get dressed. But they don’t tell them why just yet.

By the tone and flurry of activity you would think that a national emergency has been declared and they are forced to evacuate immediately. Some kids look dazed and scared.

When their parents finally let them in on the secret, some are very excited while others continue to look very perplexed.

It’s cute to watch their reactions, but…

If only those kids had autism…I thought. What kind of reaction would those parents get then?

I imagine that my autistic kids would be thrilled to go to Disney. But if they were given no warning about what’s happening, things would NOT go down well.

If my parents did that to me as a kid, even if I was excited about the idea, my anxiety would probably go through the roof.

If your think your autistic loved one would NOT exhibit that “joyfully thrilled” reaction so many parents anticipate seeing on their kids’ faces when they reveal their “surprise-vacation”, then this article is for YOU!

Special Travel Planning Challenges with Autism

Grand vacation surprises the night before are often not a good idea for many on the spectrum. When it comes to planning a vacation, families with autism would do better to involve everyone in the process from start to finish.

Here are some things to keep in mind when you start dreaming of your next vacation. Involving autistic kids in travel planning is crucial to this process.

Sudden major events, even happy ones like vacations, can trigger big feelings.

Sudden transitions involve too much information and sensory input in a very short span of time. For many this can trigger feelings like anxiety or anger …which trigger behaviors that may be harmful to self and others.

DON’T neglect thinking about the potential issues that could come from throwing a surprise.

DO tell your child where you have been dreaming of visiting for vacation. Ask him or her where he or she would like to go.

An autistic child invested in the planning process will feel more in-control in this new environment.

Many on the spectrum like to know what the expectations are of the places they visit.

My kids watched Disney park planning films over and over. My son poured over the park maps to find certain attractions. We played Disney games, watched Disney films and sang Disney songs. My kids were INVESTED in the process. By the time we arrived, my kids could relax and enjoy themselves because they had “been there before”.

DON’T leave them out of the initial planning.

DO watch planning videos, study park maps, and get psyched-up together! Make it fun!

You can truly discover what your child can or can’t handle.

Looking back, I wish that I had showed my younger daughter point-of-view videos of the rides at Walt Disney World. We might have avoided some bad experiences at certain attractions, like the Haunted Mansion.

In the “stretching room” she begged to be picked up, and then proceeded to climb my husband like a cat. She had a meltdown in the middle of a very crowded room.

DON’T just guess what you think your autistic child can handle, too. Don’t just hope that things will be okay.

DO allow your child time to explore places through videos and to express their desire to avoid certain things before you go.

You may neglect some important accommodation considerations without your autistic child’s involvement.

Getting them involved can trigger awareness of the kinds of accommodations that are necessary.

Maybe after viewing videos of certain resorts and studying their maps you get a better sense of knowing what accommodations to ask for (for example, close to pool, away from stairs, lower level, type of bed, etc.). From park maps you can locate the quiet spots for a sensory break.

If you know your autistic child will not want to ride an attraction but everyone else does, then you can use the Rider Switch option at the Disney parks.

DON’T forget about creating an “accommodations plan” based on the different needs of your autistic child. This includes sensory toys and finding safe spaces on the map.

DO ask for help or special requests when you get there. It never hurts to ask with kindness. Most places love to go the “extra mile” to help their guests!

Read more about planning a Disney vacation with someone with autism.

You can bond over the vacation planning experience!

This is my favorite part of the whole planning process…the anticipation felt by everyone in the family! It’s exciting to choose the destination, the resort, the parks, the attractions, the dining experiences, as well as any little extras that you didn’t think about but someone else did.

When everyone’s ideas are considered, then everyone feels valued and important.

DON’T downplay or ignore the contributions of anyone. If the budget doesn’t allow someone’s idea to happen, perhaps encourage them to come up with a different idea.

DO have fun with this process! Make it a “family night” to brainstorm ideas and vote on the best things to do.

Customize for your family

Some families might have to consider how much their autistic loved one perseverates on the upcoming vacation. For some it can be a rewarding task to countdown the days on a calendar. But for others it can be unhealthy obsession that interferes with daily life.

If it’s better that your loved one on the spectrum knows about a vacation a week or two in advance instead of months, then by all means do that. Still, you can involve him or her in studying the place you will visit and dreaming up some fun things to do while on vacation.

I hope that these reasons make sense for you. It doesn’t mean that you should never have a fun “vacation reveal” party if your autistic loved one enjoys that kind of surprise.

Involving autistic kids in travel planning can be done plenty of time in advance—and not the night before travel—is best. This will make them feel their input is cherished.

Happy Travels!

Click this article to discover another insight into the need to involve a family member with autism in helping to plan a vacation.

I would love to help you plan an unforgettable vacation! Just click on this link for a free travel consultation!

Flying with Special Needs

April 23, 2019 Published by angelazizak

On a “Wing and a Prayer”

It may be scary to think about the challenges of flying with special needs.

When my daughter was 8-years-old, my cousin asked her to be a flower girl in her wedding. My daughter was thrilled about this role when I showed her pictures and videos of little girls walking down church aisles in fancy dress.

The only problem: we had to fly from Indiana to Florida for the wedding.

My daughter had never flown before and I was a bit nervous. She has autism, and her language skills were still in an early stage of development. Explaining through verbal reasoning was not the best way for her to understand what goes on around her.

Still, I bought airline tickets and hoped for the best possible scenarios during our travels.

Well, “wishing and hoping” is not the best way to plan for flying with an autistic child for the first time.

Meltdown on the Airline

While the flight out to Florida went fairly smoothly, the flight back was a nightmare. First, bad weather delayed our outbound flight to our layover stop. After boarding the second plane to go home, we sat waiting for nearly 45 minutes. Then they made us get off to plane after discovering mechanical issues.

My daughter was going ballistic. When others around us were confused and getting upset, so did she…exponentially! That fact that I was a hot mess—frustrated, tired and hungry—only made things worse.

We finally got back on the plane but still waited again. My daughter was in the middle between me and another woman having a meltdown, crying and writhing around.

I apologized several times and explained that she had autism to her, but fortunately she was incredibly understanding, saying that she had someone in the family with autism.

Finally, the plane took off and she settled down some.

I vowed that as a family we would only travel by car whenever we decided to vacation. Flying was out of the question.

Flying with Special Needs: Learn from My Mistakes

“If only I knew then what I know now…”

I had flown a few times before in my life, but I was not experienced enough to anticipate all possible scenarios of what “could go wrong”. I knew my child, but I suppose I was in denial of the need for the right preparation.

Did I create her a social story video of flying in an airplane or being at the airport? No.
Did I read stories about flying to her? No.
Did I take her to the airport for a little “show-and-tell” outing? No.
Did I prepare for the potential delays and sensory impact of such a different setting? No.
Did I tell the airlines about her needs? No.

I did not adequately prepare her for our flight. Actually, not at all. If only I had done my homework, we might have had a better experience. Well, I’m doing it now…for you.

5 Steps to Preparing Your Special Needs Loved Ones for Flying

My first mistake was not seeking out help. Often, we don’t get help because we don’t know it’s available in the first place.

But now with greater awareness of organizations to help individuals and families with autism and other special needs, we can simply ask if assistance is available before “going it alone”. (Click through the links for more information.)

1. Know your rights as a passenger!

This is your first stop for getting help. Due to passage of the Air Carrier Access Act, airlines may not discriminate based on disabilities. The Department of Transportation has set rules defining passenger right and the obligation of airlines for flights within the United States (Title 14 CFR Part 382), including those with developmental disabilities.

One of those rules includes not limiting the number of persons with disabilities on a flight. Another right is that airlines are required to provide assistance with boarding, deplaning, and making connections as well as within the cabin.

Armed with this knowledge, you can ask for help confidently.

2. Ask for “special assistance” from the airline when booking the flight.

When you go online to book a flight, most airline carriers will give you an option to select special needs assistance. American Airlines has a page with information to contact them directly via phone or online. They can contact you before your flight to confirm the type of assistance you need for your flight.

Southwest has an option to select for special assistance for passengers with “cognitive and developmental disabilities” when you select your flight (see photo).

There is a special code within the travel industry that is used to alert airlines of special needs: the DPNA code stands for “passenger with developmental or intellectual disability needing assistance”. If you are using a travel agent to book a flight, be sure to let him or her know to use that code. For information about the DPNA code from a personal experience, watch this Facebook video by a family with autism.

If you book a flight yourself through a travel booking website like Expedia and it doesn’t give you the option to select “special assistance”, then be sure to contact the airline directly and ask for assistance for your specific flight. If you google the airline and “special assistance” you will most likely find the information you are looking for. Be clear about exactly what you need.

In some cases, this may be the need to pre-board before everyone else and/or to sit together as a family or group. Alert the gate boarding staff to the needs of your family or group.

Finally, consider booking direct flights instead of one with layovers, especially during seasons with a high chance of delays and cancellations.

Also schedule a flight time during the time of day when the airport may not be so crowded. This may be hard to avoid (especially at busy airports like Atlanta or Chicago), but usually early morning flights may see long lines at the security checkpoint.

Call your airport to find out when it’s less crowded and then schedule your flight times around that if necessary.

3. Conduct a “practice-run” at the airport or at home.

Given that families with autism have had too many negative experiences at airports, some decided to take matters into their own hands.

With the help of advocacy organizations like the ARC and the Autism Society, these families have developed programs to practice being at the airport and boarding the plane. These programs tend to run only a couple of times a year, with most scheduled in April during Autism Awareness Month.

If you think of ever flying with your autistic child—even if not in the immediate future—then it would be a good idea to sign up. Check with your local autism organization and airport for information on these programs.

Here are a few that are popular in the Midwest:

Soaring for Autism (Autism Society-Indiana)
Wings for Autism/Wings for All (Arc)
On Board with Autism (Autism Alliance of Michigan)

If participating is not an option, then consider making a social story about the entire process at your local airport. The links above have some videos to view; the Autism Society has a link to a downloadable social story.

As a “field trip”, visit the airport yourself with those who will be flying with you. You may not be able to get through security without a plane ticket, but you can take pictures of the process of parking, baggage check, amenities, security, important signs, seating areas, etc.

With these you can create your own social story that can be read again and again to build comfort and confidence with the process.

4. Inform TSA Cares of your need for accommodation through airport security.

By calling TSA Cares at least 72 hours in advance of your flight, you can get someone to assist during the check-in to security process. You will forward your itinerary to coordinate assistance by a Passenger Support Specialist so you, your family, or your group to get through the screening process with greater ease.

Carry a TSA notification card and/or provide medical documentation to communicate in a simple, non-verbal way each person’s needs to TSA officers.

Also know that just because someone has a disability does not mean that person is exempt from a pat-down.

I HIGHLY recommend thoroughly reading the TSA website about the procedures, watching videos about the screening process (including this social story and pat-down video), and even create your own social story “book” about the sensory issues as the process can be very over-stimulating in a visual, auditory and tactile way. Consider practicing the process at home along with the social story.

If you think you’ll be flying more than once a year, consider purchasing the TSA Pre√ ($85 for 5 years) to expedite the process (no need to remove shoes, liquids, belts, jackets, etc.).

5. Packing Sensory Items for the Flight

Airports and airlines are sensory-overloaded environments that have the potential to trigger meltdowns. Start with knowing what type of triggers to which your autistic loved one is most susceptible.

If someone is hypersensitive to noise bring noise-cancelling headphones. Some may block out sound entirely while others block background noise but allow someone to hear close conversation.

If someone is hypersensitive to visual stimuli, then wear a baseball hat that blocks out the wider panorama.

If someone is very sensitive to touch, indicate so on the TSA Notification card. If someone is hyposensitive then bring a compression shirt or other similar item.

Bring items that can be helpful distractions or soothing activities, such as coloring books; pre-downloaded music, games or movies on an iPad or iPhone; fidgets and other sensory toys; weighted lap-pads; neck pillows; chewy necklaces; soft brushes, etc. All of these items can fit into a “Sensory Bag” as a carry-on.

Don’t forget to bring an empty water bottle and healthy snacks.

Ready to Fly!

It’s the day of arrival at the airport. As one of the most sensory stimulating places to visit, you’ll find stressed-out people rushing around.

Those with autism are very sensitive to the feelings of others around them. If you as a parent are stressed, then your autistic child may be very stressed!

Being calm and relaxed yourself is very important. Ask your airline staff if the airport has a sensory or calming room to use while you wait. And make sure everyone in your party is well fed.

Another important tip is to … (wait for it) … HAVE FUN! Take walks around the terminal before boarding as a way to release energy. Play silly games like “I Spy”. Read a story or watch a funny movie together while you wait.

Having the right preparation and a fun, positive attitude will ensure a more successful flight for everyone!

For help searching for and booking flights, feel free to get in touch! I would love to help you the perfect vacation! Just click on this link for a free travel consultation!

Finding Sensory-Friendly Movie Theaters

April 10, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Finding Sensory-Friendly Movie Theaters

“How do I go about finding sensory-friendly movie theaters?”

This is a question I was asked by a family member of an autistic child. I actually had to research this one for myself as these sensory-friendly film showings are not often given enough public attention.

My autistic teens are able to watch the regular film showings now. But as younger children we rarely went to the movies in the theaters because they were so loud.

I don’t remember a lot of advertising about sensory-friendly film screenings when they were kids…but maybe it was because my son was already 6 and daughter 4 when it was first introduced by other autism parents. Even today most people have to actively seek out the answer to this question for themselves.

Why Sensory-Friendly Movie Theaters are Popular with Autism Families

First, they appeal to those with sensory sensitivities.

Those who are sound-sensitive don’t have to wear sound-barring headphones as they normally do. Those with a fear of the dark can feel comfortable seeing others around them. Those with high-levels of energy and need for movement to experience the film can move around and not have to sit still for more than an hour.

And let’s face it, sometimes we’d just like to get up and dance to certain musicals!

Second, they appeal to parents.

An autistic child’s parents can enjoy the films with the whole family without worrying about getting dirty looks or rude comments from their neighbors. Being surrounded by other families who “get it” feels like finally belonging to a “supportive tribe”.

This is also a great opportunity to network with other families in which to share knowledge and empathy. This is one setting a family can truly feel more relaxed with one another in public.

Third, they help acclimate the child to being in the public sphere.

The sensory-friendly film settings allow those with autism to feel more comfortable in public settings without needing to always behave “appropriately” as expected by general society. The more times a child goes out for events like this, then parents can teach “public behavior” skills progressively, adding one new behavioral goal with each trip.

For example, they can work on how to ask for a snack from the food counter attendant.

Fourth, you can bring in your own snacks.

Yes, you read that correctly! Since many are on restricted diets, families can bring in gluten-free, casein-free, or other diet-based foods into the theater.

Not pay an arm-and-a-leg for popcorn? Sign me up! (Call ahead to make sure your theater allows this.)

Finding Sensory-Friendly Movie Screenings Near You

While I don’t have the location of EVERY major theater that hosts sensory-friendly films, I can at least help steer you in the right direction to find a local theater that accommodates autistic individuals.

You can start with your local theater company to see if they offer this program on a regular basis.

Our town has two AMC theaters. AMC has been instrumental in making these opportunities happen in the first place. They have developed a beneficial partnership with Autism Society to make autism families aware of their sensory-friendly film showings. They offer family-friendly movies the second and fourth Saturdays of each month and reserve Tuesday evenings for “mature” film viewers.

Regal Cinemas offer a similar program called “My Way Matinee”. Click on each theater to find out about their sensory-friendly programs:

You can check with your local library if they offer sensory-friendly film programs.

For example, our town’s public library showed “Incredibles 2” one afternoon in November. Choice of films will most likely be G and geared toward the young.

You’ll also have to be proactive in seeking out these scheduled films on their website. You’ll need to make room in your schedule if you want to try to see these (mostly likely) free showings that only run one time.

If there is nothing available where you live, get involved in making those opportunities happen for yourself and others!

There are copyright laws concerning the public showing of movies without consent of the owners, of course. Maybe you are part of a small autism support group and would like to have a private showing in your home.

If you think there are enough people in the community who would benefit from a more public event, ask your local theater, library, parks and recreation department, or even disability agencies if they would host a sensory-friendly program.

Greater Choice for Autistic Individuals and their Families

You will need to check showtimes several weeks in advance if you want to see an autism-friendly film showing. While there is not a lot of choice in what film to see and when, the fact is that these sensory-friendly film showings are gaining popularity.

With the support of major autism organizations and large theater companies, the movement is definitely gaining ground. Finding sensory-friendly movie theaters and film screenings should hopefully be easier to access in the future!

For more ideas of fun activities check out my article on ways to connect with your autistic child at home.

Visiting Disneyland with Autism

April 9, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Visiting Disneyland with Autism and Other Special Needs

Visiting the original Disneyland park with autism can indeed be magical! Don’t believe me? Well, let me convince you!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk where Walt Disney walked?

For die-hard Disney fans, going to Disneyland is about as close as one can get to fulfilling that dream. For those who live in Southern California and the West Coast, Disneyland represents their childhood days and happy multi-generational family memories.

Autism Strategies for Visiting Disneyland

Being a smaller, more intimate park than Walt Disney World, this park that “started it all” has some pros and cons of which individuals and families with autism should be made aware.

Their Disability Access Service (called “DAS” for short) is generally like the one for Walt Disney World but with some very notable differences in how to access return times.

Since I have not yet visited Disneyland in California myself, I asked a good friend about her experiences using the DAS at the original Disney park.

Here are 5 tips to help you meet the challenges of being at Disneyland with autism:

1. Be sure to get the DAS from Guest Relations when you first arrive.

The DAS allows autistic individuals and their guests (family or friends) to access certain attractions without waiting in incredibly long lines. The person with autism will be the designated DAS-holder.

Cast Members will NOT ask for evidence of a diagnosis (so no need to bring documentation). At Disneyland you can get it at City Hall or at the Chamber of Commerce in California Adventure.

PERSONAL TIP #1: My friend experienced an incredibly frustrating long-line at Guest Relations in order to get the DAS. Some people have found it better to enter the park and register for the DAS at one of the Guest Relations kiosks found throughout the park. Or, get there early before the crowds.

2. Get a “return time” for the attraction you want to visit at one of the Guest Relations kiosks.

They are listed as “I” on the park maps. Tell a cast member what attraction you want to visit. That person will scan your ticket and provide a return time based on the current wait time at the attraction.

You can only get one DAS return time at a time.

PERSONAL TIP #2: My friend found getting return times a good experience. The kiosk locations were pretty convenient and visible, although some seemed farther than others. Have a physical map or the Disneyland app on your phone to find those kiosks quickly.

3. Come to the Fast Pass or disabilities exit line when it’s time to ride.

What is nice about the DAS is that there is no “window” of time in which you have to come back or else lose it. If your child has anxiety about riding the attraction right away, there is no pressure to come back at a certain time.

PERSONAL TIP #3: My friend suggested bringing a sunhat to provide shade while standing in the exit lines, as many are not shaded. Also, her daughter ended up refusing to ride many of the attractions for which she got a DAS return time. Cast members MAY let the others ride when the DAS-holder suddenly backs out if the entire party has scanned their tickets at the entrance already and walked the queue to get on the actual ride. Otherwise, you may need to use Rider Switch for attractions that the DAS-holder does not want to go on.

4. You can use the DAS in coordination with the Fast Pass system.

If there is a certain attraction that you know your autistic loved one will want to go on again and again, consider getting Fast Pass tickets for the entire party as well as a DAS return time. Try to coordinate the return time within the Fast Pass return time “window”.

PERSONAL TIP #4: My friend did not get the Max Pass as she didn’t think it was necessary to buy in addition to using the free Fast Passes AND the DAS. If you want the Photo Pass, the ability to get Fast Pass times through your phone, and pre-order your meals, then it would be a good idea to purchase the Max Pass for these benefits.

5. Try to avoid the most crowded days and times.

The pro about Disneyland is its small size. The con about Disneyland is…its small size. Some days at Disneyland and California Adventure are busier than others, particularly around the holidays and weekends.

Unlike the Florida parks, the California parks are considered part of the Anaheim/LA “neighborhood”. Many locals are annual pass-holders who come to the parks just for a few hours.

This makes for very crowded conditions and a potential sensory problem for those on the spectrum.

PERSONAL TIP #5: My friend says the evenings became intensely crowded when locals got off work to watch the fireworks. Losing a child in those crowds can become a parent’s worst nightmare. Avoid the “bottleneck” areas of the parks when crowds pick up. Make sure everyone has identification on them in case someone is missing. Use a GPS tracker for your autistic loved one if she or he is a runner.

Great Things to be Found at Disneyland for Families with Autism

Since Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure are only walking distance from one another, it makes park-hopping a good experience.

If your autistic loved one has a set plan to ride certain attractions of both parks in one day, this would be a beneficial ticket option. Once you have the DAS, you can use it at both parks for up to 60 days.

The DAS is often a life-saver for some people, for others a very nice perk. Be sure to rely on cast members for help in finding good locations for sensory breaks or providing the right accommodations for your autistic loved one besides the DAS.

I also recommend you download—before your trip—the Guide for Cognitive Disabilities (including ASD) as well the Attraction Details for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities found here.

Disneyland’s DAS has helped many guests, including my friend and her family, create happy and unforgettable memories. Visiting Disneyland with autism doesn’t have to be a challenge but a magical experience!

I’m sure it’s something Walt would be very proud of!

For a quote or more information about a Disneyland vacation, request a consultation through this link.

Why Scouts BSA is Terrific for Autistic Youth

April 5, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Why Scouts BSA is Terrific for Autistic Youth

Because we are a Scouting family, I know exactly why Scouts BSA is terrific for autistic youth. Both of my autistic teens are very involved in Scouts.

I can attest to the amazing progress in my kids that comes with belonging to Scouts BSA.

“Adventure is out there!”

That’s one of my favorite movie quotes from the very cool movie “UP!” I just love Russell. He has an infectious enthusiasm for the Scouting way of life. He is also my husband’s character avatar (who happens to be a BSA troop scoutmaster). No, seriously. My husband looked exactly like Russell when he was a kid.

When my autistic son turned 11, my husband couldn’t wait to introduce him to Scouts. Camping expeditions, learning knots, campfire cooking, canoe trips, patrol leadership…where else can a young teen do all this and MORE than in Scouts?

Maybe you think…Ok, I get that it’s beneficial for many teen boys and girls. But why should my autistic child get involved? Won’t it be another peer-group that will keep my child at arm’s length?

I get it. I had the same fears. Having the social-communication challenges that often come with autism don’t make the road to travel the life stages very easy.

But being involved in Scouts can! Now that my son is an Eagle Scout, I can share why I believe Scouting is terrific—and actually a better alternative to traditional therapy—for those on the spectrum.

The Benefits of Scouts BSA for Those with Autism

Scouts BSA provides that “safe”, natural, inclusive group environment with one’s peers and adult mentors. In Scouts an autistic youth can develop appropriate skills in social-communication, executive-functioning, confident leadership, self-help, and self-advocacy.

All through FUN ADVENTURES, of course!

In other words, the benefits for a teen with autism to become a Scout are beyond measure!

1. It has a supportive environment for those needing a place to feel included.

No other group-oriented environment provides the same level of long-term, consistent support like Scouts (starting at Kindergarten with Cub Scouts).

Sports and band are only for a few seasons. Church youth groups and high school classes have a single-minded focus.

Therapy environments feel forced and unnatural. Parents have enough of their plate at home…plus they can’t be their teen’s only role-model if they want him or her to develop independence skills.

A good Scout troop will be…

…Kind and respectful to every person.

Any peer Scout who antagonizes or discourages those on the spectrum would never be tolerated. Ask what protocols have been implemented to not only prevent bullying but to encourage positive interaction among peers.

.…Accommodating to individual needs.

The troops should encourage each person to progress through the ranks at his/her own pace while still giving them challenges to master in order to gain self-confidence. Ask if the troop leadership has been trained to recognize and support those with cognitive-sensory differences.

They should also be willing to meet with parents and discuss how the IEP or other assessment can be used to effectively develop a good plan of achievement for the individual Scout.

Read my article about accessing special needs accommodations in Scouts BSA.

…Building trust by meeting on a consistent basis.

My family’s Scouts BSA troop meets once a week all year for ages 11-18. They have campouts or other events at least once a month. Obviously, good trusting relationships can be built in such an environment.

If your child would like to join at a young age, get involved in a Cub Pack (ages 5-11). Venturing Crews are high-adventure troops for young men and women ages 14-21.

2. The scouting experience provides “free therapy”.

No other environment provides a place to learn therapeutic skills like Scouts BSA…without paying for expensive sessions!

Let me break that down by the 3 main “diagnostic traits” associated with autism:

Social-communication:

Scouts learn to communicate their needs to each other in order to accomplish tasks. For example, a patrol must talk and work together to solve a problem or master a challenge, like setting up a tent campsite or making a campfire recipe.

Most of the troop activities are interactive, so an autistic child will gain valuable social and communication skills. Very few (if any) therapy settings provide this level of interactive group learning to develop good social and communication skills.

Executive-Functioning:

By earning merit badges and ranks, Scouts learn to set short- and long-term achievement goals. With the help of adult leaders, they develop discipline to see those goals fulfilled.

Specific merit badges teach time management, cooking, self-care and hygiene, safety and first aid, awareness of the community, swim skills, and many, many more valuable life skills…everything that leads to greater independence, a strong work-ethic, and compassion for others.

Behavioral therapists may spend months working on ONE particular skill set, while Scouts provides the opportunities to enhance executive-functioning skills in a real-world, demonstrable setting.

Scouting also provides a setting that no office setting can possibly achieve. It allows them to also translate life skills into the real world. That is why Scouts BSA is terrific for autistic youth

Sensory:

The world of Scouts is a tactile world. There is a lot of hands-on activities to satisfy those who are sensory-seekers as well as those who need to develop fine and gross motor skills.

Some autistic Scouts enjoy the task of tying knots while others like the visual-spatial challenge of orienteering (which is using a compass to find hidden locations).

Being in a natural, calming environment during camp-outs is tremendously beneficial for those prone to sensory overload from other environments (especially without the distractions of electronics).

3. An autistic individual can learn valuable job skills.

Scouts is the perfect environment to develop both “hard” and “soft” job skills.

Marketing and sales? The troop sells popcorn, pizzas and snack food at festivals.

Face-to-face customer service? The troop provides dinner fundraisers, serving guests with a smile. They also do many face-to-face community-service projects, such as collecting scrap metal and other “good neighbor” duties.

Leadership skills? They can serve in various roles, such as Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, and Quartermaster. Some are election-based and others volunteer-based.

Public speaking? Each scout learns to speak in front of the whole troops and parents during the Court of Honor ceremonies as they discuss what they learned earning their merit badges and rank advancements.

Interview skills? They promote themselves by explaining the reasons they should be elected to certain leadership positions within the troop.

Actual employment? Scouts have the opportunity to work at their local Scout camps. My son worked as kitchen staff last summer and will again this year because they want him back so badly. The camp director has a brother with autism and he was extremely helpful in getting my son acclimated to his job. This was also a great opportunity to live away from home during the week to gain independent living skills. He came back a very confident, hard-working and conscientious young man.

4. It provides many opportunities for family bonding.

Scouts provides a wonderful avenue to developing a stronger bond with one’s teenager. This is another reason why Scouts BSA is terrific for autistic youth.

Teens who work alongside or at least witness their parents or other family members supporting them in their own interests and hobbies develop a greater relationship with them.

Here are reasons why parents are highly encouraged to be involved in their son or daughter’s troop:

Scouts see their parents as a model to emulate.

When a scout sees his or her parent modeling the “Scout Motto” with others in his troop, he or she gains a deeper appreciation and respect for them. As the teen Scout matures, so does his/her family member in a leadership capacity.

Scouts work with their parents to achieve their rank advancements and merit badges.

Often a scout must complete many of the tasks required to earn badges at home. For example, a family member can take the scout to witness a town hall meeting or help develop a food budget and menu list for the next camp-out.

Scouts work and have fun alongside their family.

Many parents and their scouts enjoy the time they spend at the weekend camp-outs together. My husband and son loved to develop tasty meals together for campfire cooking. Without the interference of the computer, phone or social media, they can spend quality one-on-one or group time together building memories.

5. It offers a variety of thrilling adventure trips.

Scouts is unique from many other organizations—if your child loves adventure, then Scouts BSA provides! Not only does it have many council-based “reservations” (or camps) with a plethora of outdoor and indoor activities, but it also has several “high-adventure” camps throughout the country.

They also participate in many guided educational or nature-based excursions. Some even go on hiking expeditions in other countries. These are sure to boost your teen’s self-confidence!

Summer Camps:

Troops have the option to stay a week at their own council’s camp or they can go to another state. For most years our troop stayed close to home at more local camps. They were able to earn several merit badges during their time, learn valuable skills, and gain confidence being away from home.

Indian lore, photography, kayaking, swimming, cooking, movie-making, scuba-diving, and archery are just a few of the many things a scout can do at camp.

This year our troop is going to Medicine Mountain Camp in South Dakota to explore Mt. Rushmore and other surrounding sites.

Check out my article on helpful tips on getting your special needs youth ready for summer camp.

Guided Adventures:

Does your teen love space? Perhaps your troop can go to Space Camp for a week in Huntsville, Alabama.

Would your teen enjoy roughing it in a peaceful setting, canoeing and fishing? Then a guided tour of Boundary Waters in Minnesota is the ticket.

Does your teen dream about sailing in the Caribbean? Sea Base in the Florida Keys is a Scouts BSA High-Adventure Camp that allows scouts to stay overnight on a 40-foot, multi-cabin sailboat and learn sailing skills for the week. Our troop did this, visited an alligator farm and rode a high-speed airboat through the Everglades. My son absolutely loved this experience! (And now wants to move to Florida…)

These adventurous excursions continue to grow in number each year, allowing more scouts to explore more places in the great outdoors and gain world-perspective.

Valuable Life Skills Learned in Scouts BSA

I truly believe that, more than any therapy or other organization, the scouting experience has shaped my autistic son into a confident young man with a valuable set of skills to lead him into a positive direction into adulthood.

He has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, one of the proudest moments in our family’s lives.

Now that Boys Scouts of America has been changed to Scouts BSA, teen girls can join troops and earn the same merit badges and ranks as the boys.

My 15-year-old autistic daughter just joined the inaugural female troop that is affiliated with my husband’s and son’s troop.

I am very excited that now teen girls get the same opportunities to experience these benefits of Scouting!

Being a scout will give your child the opportunities to reach high and dream big! This is, I believe, why Scouts BSA is terrific for autistic youth.

If “adventure is out there”, you will certainly find it in Scouts BSA!

For more information about Scouts BSA, visit the official website.

Fun Activities to Connect with Your Child at Home

April 2, 2019 Published by angelazizak

How to Connect with Your Child using Fun Home-Based Activities

There are a variety of fun activities you can do to connect with your child at home. Some involve a lot of time, while others very little time and effort.

Just spending a few minutes a day doing something your child loves is sure-fire way to feel a greater bond.

Get Out of Therapy Rat-Race!

Do you feel like all you get accomplished during the week is shuffling your kids back and forth to a myriad of after-school activities and therapies?

Are the kids begging you to play but the laundry pile is taller than you?

Is “fun mom” taking a backseat to “chauffeur-dishwasher-cook-secretary-therapy mom”?

Besides feeling frustrated trying to keep up with daily life, many parents feel disconnected from their kids if communication and mutual understanding are challenging.

When my kids were young, they had meltdowns because I didn’t understand what they needed. Hence, I felt like I needed to be their therapist or case manager to meet their greatest needs.

Sometimes what they really needed more was my time, attention and love…even if it was just 20 minutes.

Find that Joy at Home

If you want to go beyond figuring out your autistic child’s needs and connect with them in joyful, simple ways, here are some ideas—ranging from minimal effort to greater effort—that you can do everyday.

These activities are designed to foster meaningful interaction between two or more people as well as important life skills. As your child’s first teacher, he or she will be looking to YOU to be a guide in daily behavior and relationships.

It’s time to grow, connect and make memories at home…together!

1. Read together a favorite book.

If they child is moving around or stimming, this is okay. If he or she seems to be listening, read it with flair and even act it out.

2. Be still next to your child.

No phones, no computer…just solitude together. Just having someone nearby without a distraction is connecting.

3. Put on your child’s favorite music while doing chores together.

We put on Disney music on Pandora while we work together. It brings on a lot of laughter and singing while making boring chores more fun.

4. Jump on a trampoline together.

This is guaranteed to make you both smile and build strong muscles. (As long as you don’t pee your pants while you jump!)

5. Sing along to favorite songs while in the car.

This build camaraderie between the two of you as well as language skills for your child.

6. Recite nursery rhymes while taking walks.

We even like to recite movie scripts together. Anything that fosters interaction between two or more people!

7. Swing right alongside your child!

I always had fun being silly while we were swinging side by side. The stimulation of swinging not only provides a great sensory outlet for pent-up energy. I believe it also helps many autistic children learn things and language better while they are in motion (like it did for mine).

8. Draw or color pictures together.

My daughter would make me draw a paused movie or cartoon scene. This began the spark of a lifelong passion for drawing for my daughter. I am very grateful that she asked me to inspire her!

9. Play silly games that your child enjoys and understands.

Our favorite is Disney’s Apples-to-Apples game. My kids end up laughing so hard and the silly associations they come up with.

10. Watch your child’s favorite TV show or movie without any other distractions.

This also means no phone, computer or iPad around.

11. Have your child pick out and make a recipe with you.

Not only does this provide an opportunity to learn self-help skills, but also mutual cooperation, taking instruction, tactile learning, engaging the many senses, and building a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence.

12. Work on a LEGO project together.

Working on a project your child loves says “I value your interests and I want to encourage you to explore them.” Building a LEGO set together teaches mutual cooperation, communication and visual-spatial skills.

13. Take your child to a children’s museum or a zoo.

I have always loved taking my kids to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. While sensory-intense, it allowed me to play alongside them and not be “mom”. A day-trip to the zoo is also fun, although some sensory considerations must be taken in account.

14. If your child likes to draw or create stories, make a comic strip together.

You can help him or her develop some amazing skills in the process. This could be a long-term project you work on together, enabling a strong bond to grow.

15. Create a social story together dealing with something that is hard for your child.

Often it is extremely frustrating for both you and your child to resolve a tough problem. You child may not be able to express his or her thoughts and feelings well. And you may not understand at all. But sometimes visualizing the problem can help. Create or find a social story online that relates to the problem he or she is currently dealing with. It will be empowering for your child to have a hand in creating his/her own social story.

16. Explore nature parks and create journals with plants and animals you discovered.

I love walking in the woods with my kids. Not only is therapeutically relaxing for all of us, but we use that time to teach cool nature facts. If your child is a collector, bring a bag to stash leaves, acorns, and other discoveries. Then you can research what they are and create a nature journal together in the process.

17. Do fun science experiments—video record what happens.

Some science experiments are wacky fun! What happens when you put a Mentos in Diet Coke? How do you make your own homemade lava lamp? These are activities that don’t require a lot of verbal communication to see results. Watching videos of these projects can help when providing instructions. Take pictures of your efforts to make the memories last longer!

18. Download a star-gazing app and learn about the different stars, planets and other things in the night sky.

If your child is naturally inquisitive like mine about the night sky, he or she will really enjoy the time you spend picking out the constellations, stars and planets. What a beautiful way to connect with your child than over the great natural wonders beyond our world!

19. Go camping or enjoy a staycation somewhere local for a night or two.

Camping is a unique experience in that you get out in nature and away from electronic distractions. There is nothing like enjoying quiet moments together at the campfire. Staycations are great for getting your child used to travel and getting acclimated to spending more days away from home. Plus, travel expands the learning mind!

For tips on how to introduce the experience of camping to your autistic child, read my article “Easing Your Child Into Camping”.

20. Start planning a week-long trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World with your child!

It is so much fun to spend time with my kids pouring over the Disney maps and finding our favorite attractions. Then we watch Disney planning videos of the resorts and point-of-view videos of the attractions together. It’s exciting to dream up our vacation plans together!

21. Learn musical instruments together—play songs at Christmas time or whenever you feel like it.

Not only have you develop a love of music together, you have taught your special needs child how to work cooperatively with another person toward a goal. Learning to play music enhances personal growth as well. Music appreciation and knowing how to play an instrument will remain lifelong passions!

22. Take an online course together.

This honestly could be anything (like learning how to draw mandalas). Most likely, however, your child will be steering the interest. You can find a wide variety of course on Udemy or Khan Academy. One really cool course is learning how to be a Disney animator!

23. Join a hobby club together.

If your child loves animals and crafts, then 4H is a wonderful club. If your child likes building with electronics, then many communities have robotics clubs. Check with your child’s school or local library to find out where all the hobby clubs in your area meet. Get involved as a leader and/or helping your child with the projects.

24. Serve as a leader of a Boy Scout or Girl Scout troop to which your child belongs.

There are some amazing benefits for kids on the spectrum when they join a Scout troop! Not to mention the wonderful bonding opportunities between you and your child when you get involved as a troop leader. A long-term Scouting experience builds strong character and growth as well as provides opportunities for employment and resume-building.

25. Homeschool your child.

This may take a period of transition if your child is used to public school. But after some initial hard days and refusals—if that applies to your child—the reward of having a deeper relationship with your child will pay off!

I homeschooled my daughter for two years during middle school. I believed those years allowed us to forge a strong, trusting mother-daughter bond that has carried through into her public high school year so far.

Chores Can Wait…Joy Lasts Forever!

It’s not the end of the world if you don’t get caught up on laundry because you bounced on the trampoline with your child.

And you won’t remember making the perfect Pinterest dinner as much as the moment of pride in listening to your child sing a Disney song for the first time while swinging together!

Your child will be overjoyed just to have exclusive time with you. He or she will remember those fun moments for years to come.

Take pictures of those moments! Taking a trip down memory lane together years in the future is another great opportunity to reconnect over pleasant times.

Consider doing one or more of these fun activities you can do at home to connect with your child at least once a week. Let “fun mom” come out to play!

It’s time to connect with your child by making memories of everyday life at home!

An Autism Guide to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum

March 31, 2019 Published by angelazizak

Your Autism Guide to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum

If you have ever wanted to visit the Indianapolis Children’s Museum but were afraid of an intense sensory environment, then allow me to guide you as you navigate your visit with an autism.

The “Awesome-est” Museum on the Planet!

What do dinosaurs, a space station, a giant “chocolate” slide, an archeological dig in China, an old-fashioned carousel, and Super Mario Brothers have in common?

Why, they are all located at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum!

There is no other museum that my family and I have visited that is quite like the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. You can spend several hours, even days, exploring its 5 floors of highly interactive, sensory and educational exhibits.

While most exhibits are permanent, some are temporary for a few months (such as Paw Patrol) or a few years (Take Me There Greece). With actual science experts and interpreters available to answer questions, this is truly a working and ever-evolving museum.

Obsessions Fulfilled!

Is anyone in your family really into model trains? They have several displays and places to play with toy trains…and an actual steam locomotive used in the late 1800s!

Is anyone into dinosaurs? They have real, life-size dinosaur bones on display, a “dig for bones” site, and play areas with giant eggs and dinosaur figures.

Is anyone into learning about archeological finds from Egypt, China and the Caribbean? Try on scuba gear, put together pieces of a sarcophagus, or use tools to discover relics from China’s past.

Is anyone into space exploration? Discover what it’s like to live on a space station and watch the frequently-run planetarium films on different space-related topics.

And much, much MORE! (I’m just scratching the surface of what is there.)

Not Just for Kids!

While its name implies that it’s only for children, I highly beg to differ. Just recently they had an enormous exhibit of Star Trek paraphernalia, including models of the Enterprise and the costumes worn by the original cast of the TV show and most recent movies.

I was as giddy as a small child upon discovering that they had my very first lunchbox—a red Empire Strikes Back—encased in a display.

The Indianapolis Children’s Museum is truly a place for ALL ages. Each exhibit caters to the different developmental stages and sensory experiences—audio, visual, tactile, smell, kinesthetic—making the museum a complete and playful learning environment.

Warning…Potential Overload!

Because it is so sensory rich, this can pose problems for some children and adults on the spectrum. For one, it can be incredibly LOUD. It can also be very CROWDED (like, theme park crowded) on certain holidays and weekends.

Some displays are very visually stimulating. The planetarium can be overwhelming for those afraid of darker spaces. My own autistic children experienced sensory overload within about 4 hours, needing to get away for a short break.

With this in mind, I want to provide you with some important tips for making your trip to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Come explore with me as I provide you with an autism guide to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum!

BEFORE YOU GO…

1. Plan out when and how long you can visit.

Can you visit during the weekday when it’s not so crowded?

Sometimes the museum has certain “free days” over holidays…DON’T GO THEN!

It is also very crowded over spring break weekend. Can you visit one day or two? Can your family handle only a couple hours at a time or all day with a break?

If you live far away and are spending some time in the area, then consider a two-day experience to spread it out, especially if it becomes too overwhelming after a few hours.

2. Explore the website of the Indianapolis Children’s Museum.

You’ll be able to see pictures and a few videos of the different attractions in each exhibit.

Also, watch YouTube videos of the attractions with your autistic loved one to get a better sense of what to expect in terms of behavior or anticipated excitement.

Have fun getting to the know the museum with your child!

3. Download the Sensory Guide while you plan your trip.

This very thorough resource is designed to help families with autism have the best possible experience. You can print this out at home or ask for one from a ticket-taker. You will need to have it with you as you go through the museum as there are no sensory designation signs at the exhibit entrances.

They also provide a Social Narrative that you can read with your autistic loved one at home to prepare for this experience. A very helpful Visual Checklist has social story cue cards—both pre-verbal requests as well as pictures of the exhibits—that you can print off and laminate to use while you are at the museum. You can make a pre-determined schedule based on your child’s interests as well as sensory needs.

You can learn about their full range of their accessibility program here.

4. Find out if you qualify for any discounts.

You can get a 25% discount by buying tickets 2-weeks in advance through the website. If your autistic loved one can’t wait in a long ticket line, this is especially helpful.

They do NOT offer AAA discounts at the museum, but you may ask your local AAA office (as well as employee-based programs) if they can sell discounted tickets.

Consider buying a family membership if you plan spend more than one day there within the year and have more than a couple of children within the family.

Another idea: suggest getting tickets or membership as holiday or birthday gifts.

If you are a resident of Indiana and have Medicaid or your autistic kids have a Medicaid-based family supports waiver, your family qualifies for the Access Pass. It will allow you to get in at $2/person.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE…

5. Come earlier in the day.

Be there at the hour they open if possible. Usually there are less people in the first couple of hours.

If your child has a hard time waiting in line, have a helper wait with him or her while you go get tickets.

6. Visit the concierge for assistance, including sensory tools.

If you didn’t bring your own noise-cancelling headphones, ask for a pair from the level 1 concierge desk. (I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THESE AS THIS PLACE CAN BE LOUD.) You can find it past the giant water clock near the elevators.

7. Consider starting at the top floor first, then work your way down.

Most people want to explore the lower levels first. But for a shorter line at the carousel (only $1 to ride/person) visit level 4 first thing in the morning. The exhibits here—Carousel Wishes & Dreams and Science Works—are also the most sensory-stimulating in terms of noise, tactile- movement, visual-spatial, and lighting. You child may be able to handle this area earlier in the day when he or she is less tired and not ripe for a meltdown.

8. Playscape is open to special needs kids. Normally, this very hands-on, movement-based area (level 3) is only for children 5 and under. But if your older, autistic child would like to explore water, sand, colors, and a climbing structure, feel free to play here.

9. For some quiet, down-time, visit The Power of Children.

It is a reflective, educational exhibit (level 3) of the lives of three important children who made a difference in the world. There may be some spaces that induce a calming effect.

Other quiet areas are found on Level 2: around the ramp (Mini-Masterpieces and Stories from Our Community) and Big Bad and Bizarre where you can find a dark, quiet overlook of the Dinosphere® exhibit.

10. When you get hungry…

The Food Court can be very chaotic and loud around lunchtime. There is plenty of space to eat so consider the tables further from the cashiers.

But if you would rather bring your own lunch (especially with a special diet), there is a quiet place outside the food court just inside the Dinosphere®.

Ask the concierge if there are other places you can eat that are quieter.

11. If your child is a runner…

Bring along a tracker device if necessary or something your child can wear with your identification and phone number.

Several exhibits have more than one entrance. Dinosphere® is dark, so it can be hard to constantly track your child.

Alert staff “interpreters” at exhibit entrances that your child has autism and is susceptible to take off without warning. They can alert other staff to locate your child.

Consider bringing along other helpers. Call ahead to see if your certified respite care worker is entitled to a free ticket (317-334-4000).

12. Potentially “scary places”…

These include:

the Treasures of the Earth elevator (simulates riding down a semi-dark mine-shaft that rattles);
the Planetarium (can be disconcerting due to being very dark and playing shows on the rounded ceiling); and…
Dinosphere® (darker area with special effects sounds and sights, including dinosaur growling and stormy weather).

With good preparation, your child might be fine handling these.

Watch a video of the experience. Then create a social story with your child.

PLAN WELL…HAVE FUN!

While it’s important to be prepared it’s also important to “go with the flow”. That includes not pushing your child to keep going when they have had enough.

I recommend spending more than one day if you are not from Indiana. Make it a weekend getaway and visit the Indianapolis Zoo as well!

My autistic kids absolutely love this place, even as teenagers. Every visit has been a little different as they have grown up and the museum morphs with new exhibits. We had our challenges with sensory overload (including me!). But it’s one of the most enriching learning and playful places on the planet.

With an autism guide to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum to help you navigate the sensory experiences, you’ll a greater chance of having a lots of fun!

Author: angelazizak

Thinking of trying out an amusement park with your autistic child?

Some of the best things are in the middle of nowhere…literally.

Your Autism Guide to Holiday World Accommodations

Your autism guide to a fun-filled family adventure

1. Know your child’s time-limit for waiting.

2. Ask for a return time right away.

3. Assess the wait time by observing the pace of lines.

4. Take advantage of conveyor-type attractions.

5. On hot afternoons, head to the shady area attractions with little or no waits.

6. Take advantage of their “calming room”.

7. Bring your own sensory tools.

8. Take a break to see the shows or meet-and-greet some characters.

9. Go to the park on less-crowded weekdays.

10. Check out the gluten-free meal options.

11. Before you go, download the Accessibility Guide to get a sense of what each attraction is like.

Sensory-Intense Attractions

1. The Voyage

2. The Thunderbird

Autism Friendly?

Why I love Holiday World

Camping with Autism: Tips for a Positive Experience

Passing on a love of camping…with some “growing pains”

Practical Advice for a Positive Camping Experience

1. Consider the “5-senses” of camping.

2. Choose the right location.

3. Assess your accommodation needs.

4. Be prepared.

5. Be realistic about what your family can handle.

Unwind…

America the Beautiful Access Pass

About the National Parks Access Pass for Autism and Other Special Needs

Accessing Recreational Opportunities

Dream Away!

Why Plan with Your Special Needs Child

Surprise!

Special Travel Planning Challenges with Autism

Sudden major events, even happy ones like vacations, can trigger big feelings.

An autistic child invested in the planning process will feel more in-control in this new environment.

You can truly discover what your child can or can’t handle.

You may neglect some important accommodation considerations without your autistic child’s involvement.

You can bond over the vacation planning experience!

Customize for your family

Happy Travels!

I would love to help you plan an unforgettable vacation! Just click on this link for a free travel consultation!

Meltdown on the Airline

Flying with Special Needs: Learn from My Mistakes

5 Steps to Preparing Your Special Needs Loved Ones for Flying

1. Know your rights as a passenger!

2. Ask for “special assistance” from the airline when booking the flight.

3. Conduct a “practice-run” at the airport or at home.

4. Inform TSA Cares of your need for accommodation through airport security.

5. Packing Sensory Items for the Flight

Ready to Fly!

For help searching for and booking flights, feel free to get in touch! I would love to help you the perfect vacation! Just click on this link for a free travel consultation!

Finding Sensory-Friendly Movie Theaters

Why Sensory-Friendly Movie Theaters are Popular with Autism Families

First, they appeal to those with sensory sensitivities.

Second, they appeal to parents.

Third, they help acclimate the child to being in the public sphere.

Fourth, you can bring in your own snacks.

Finding Sensory-Friendly Movie Screenings Near You

You can start with your local theater company to see if they offer this program on a regular basis.

You can check with your local library if they offer sensory-friendly film programs.

If there is nothing available where you live, get involved in making those opportunities happen for yourself and others!

Greater Choice for Autistic Individuals and their Families

For more ideas of fun activities check out my article on ways to connect with your autistic child at home.

Visiting Disneyland with Autism and Other Special Needs

Autism Strategies for Visiting Disneyland

1. Be sure to get the DAS from Guest Relations when you first arrive.

2. Get a “return time” for the attraction you want to visit at one of the Guest Relations kiosks.

3. Come to the Fast Pass or disabilities exit line when it’s time to ride.

4. You can use the DAS in coordination with the Fast Pass system.

5. Try to avoid the most crowded days and times.

Great Things to be Found at Disneyland for Families with Autism

For a quote or more information about a Disneyland vacation, request a consultation through this link.

Why Scouts BSA is Terrific for Autistic Youth

“Adventure is out there!”

The Benefits of Scouts BSA for Those with Autism

1. It has a supportive environment for those needing a place to feel included.