Our youngest son Alfie is adopted and has Autism. He is 7 years old. Travelling with a child with Autism can be very challenging and I was recently on BBC Radio Derby talking about the challenges that some parents face. It is a subject extremely close to my heart and having a child with Autism and additional needs has changed our lives. Being a travel expert and recently re launching my business I very quickly discovered that this subject isn't (in my opinion) one that is talked about very often. There are so many challenges that families face on a daily basis and booking a holiday or trip away can be extremely daunting. I want to help families in the position and for them to know that there are travel experts out there that understand their daily challenges and struggles. And also, the things that their family might need when travelling on holiday.

I thought I would use this blog to give a few hints and tips and things to consider when you are planning a trip away -

BEFORE TRAVEL Travel can be a very overwhelming experience for people and planning in advance is key. In the weeks and months leading upto your trip think how you can prepare your child. Mark dates on the calendar and create visual reminders of the up-and-coming holiday. A countdown chart or images of a "timeline" of travel. Pictures of the airport or mode of transport, the hotel, or the pool. Think about sensory needs and what your child might experience - ear popping and take-off and landing - how can you prepare for this. There are so many sounds to play available online - could you play these and get your child used to it so they know what to expect? It is important to take away as many moments of unpredictability as possible.

TRAVELLING What could you do to ease your child and help? Do they have a favourite smell - blanket or sensory toy? Ear defenders to block out sound. Prepack their favourite snacks and meals - is your child a picky eater? or do they have dietary needs? mini meals and snacks are perfect also chewy foods like gummy sweets and bagels - these are great for children who seek sensory stimulation - do they have a chewy toy or fidget toys. These things are great for travelling and are small so you can usually pack quite a few in hand luggage. Pack a "travel bag" for your child - books, colouring books, iPad or tablet, earphones, play dough or putty. What can you do prior to arrival at the airport that will make them more relaxed? Perhaps a later flight time might work better for your family - often children have lots of energy so doing an activity prior to leaving such as running, jumping - high motor activities can help burn off some of that energy prior to travel. Airlines and airports as well as tour operators are very accommodating, and I can help you to plan things like pre boarding - fast track security - airport lounges. All things that can be pre-arranged to help make sure your travel is as easy and as stress free as possible.

ON HOLIDAY Plan as best as possible for all potential situations - what does your child need and when. I can help you pick the right hotel in the right area with the right things. If your child struggles with loud sounds, then I can contact the hotel to arrange a quiet room. Perhaps a hotel in a smaller village or town would work better - a more remote location with a smaller and quieter beach. Does your child need a hotel with adaptations, a ramp, help getting into the pool, a fridge for medication? Does the hotel need to know these things in advance? Are you close to the local hospital if you need it, and does your travel insurance cover everything you need it to? Lots of choosing the right place for you comes down to talking to an expert - someone who understands the needs of your family and finding the right holiday. Perhaps your child likes to sleep in the day - needs a separate sleeping area in your room, somewhere darker, somewhere lighter. Do you need to take their blankets or their soft toys? Do you need storage for their medication and have your prepared the correct letters from their doctors or medical professionals? How are they in the heat? Would a UK Break work better?

There are so many things to think about and it isn't always easy - but the world is open to everyone and there should be no barriers as to what you can experience as a family!

Today is Autism awareness day and I wanted to take this opportunity to share my passion and experience in this area.

Just a few small hints and tips

Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or want me to help you plan your holiday!

Kirsty