Crafting a travel plan for families with an autistic child ages 13-18. (continued)

 

5. Plan Teen-Oriented Activities

• What Changes: Traditional “kid” activities might not hold the same appeal. Instead of a simple playground, consider scenic hikes, technology museums, gaming cafes, or age-appropriate adventure sports (within comfort zones).

• Why It Matters: Engaging, age-appropriate experiences keep them interested and reduce the potential for boredom, meltdowns or shutdowns caused by disinterest or dysregulation.

• How It Looks in the Narrative: Show you recognize their more mature tastes: “We’re checking out this new arcade that also has a VR experience. Interested?”

 

6. Respect Their Desire for Personal Space

• What Changes: Teens often crave privacy. They might want solo downtime in the hotel room, or they might not want parents hovering.

• Why It Matters: Giving them space to recharge on their own terms can reduce tension and prevent sensory overload.

• How It Looks in the Narrative: You could say, “If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you can hang out in the room and listen to music while I check out the gift shop. Text me if you need me.”

 

7. Prepare for Transition to Adulthood

• What Changes: Ages 13–18 is a preparatory period for adulthood. Involving them in budgeting, scheduling, or navigating can be a teaching moment.

• Why It Matters: Building practical life skills helps them handle future independent travel or adult life transitions.

• How It Looks in the Narrative: Highlight empowerment: “Would you like to help plot our route on Google Maps or compare flight times and ticket costs?”

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​​​​​​​​​​​PAGE 18 OF 21