Begin Your Journey with a Divergent Adventure 10-Point Pre-trip Plan!

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1. Chat About the Trip With Your Children Early & Often

• What to do: Begin discussing the upcoming trip a few weeks in advance. Show photos or videos of Mesa and Arizona, the hotel, and any activities you're planning. Images and Links can be found in your Divergent Adventure Itinerary.

• Why it helps: It sets clear expectations and helps your child mentally rehearse (fewer surprises, more peace of mind).

 

2. Visual Schedules & Social Stories

• What to do: Using your Divergent Adventure Itinerary as a guide, create a simple visual timeline (Storyboard) for each day, with pictures for each facet of your trip. Start with a "morning routine," then progress through each itinerary day.Images and Links can be found in your Divergent Adventure Itinerary.

• Why it helps: Children often benefit from knowing what's next. A structured "story" or schedule offers security while also helping to manage their expectations.

 

3. Get Physical With Journey30

• What to do: Arizona is a fantastic nature-based outdoor adventure destination. Your Divergent Adventure features many sites that offer fun activities while using open and calming spaces to relieve stress and sensory overload and offer freedom of movement.  Journey30 is a unique thirty-day physical movement training program for the entire family.

• Why it helps: Physical movement is a key component of your adventure. Building a routine at home before the trip can help everyone be more accepting and comfortable throughout their adventure.

 

NOTE: Journey 30 is not a physical fitness training program. Instead, its purpose is to encourage freedom of movement and to help build a physical movement routine into your family's lifestyle. This is a key part of the adventure experience for the whole family.

  

4. Pack Familiar Comfort Items – A suggested packing list is included with your itinerary.

• What to do: On travel days, bring along your favorite stuffed friend, blanket, or fidget toy. Also, if certain sounds are overwhelming, consider wearing noise-canceling headphones or earplugs along with “safe foods. "

• Why they help: Familiar objects can ground your child and help them self-regulate in an unfamiliar or overstimulating environment. They can be invaluable during long flights or car rides.

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