5. Before You Leave Home – Plan A Trial Run For Travel Transportation

• What to do: If you fly, show your child airport and airplane videos; maybe do a short local flight if time/budget allows. If driving, practice with a slightly longer drive than usual.

• Why it helps: Familiarity with the environment and process (security lines, boarding passes, seat belts) reduces anxiety (sensory dysregulation). Your child learns that seat belts and "no, we can't visit the cockpit" are part of the deal.

 

Pro Tip: Some airports offer special tours or trial runs for autistic travelers and their families. Contact yours to learn about what is available.

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6. Plan for Sensory Breaks

• What to do: Look up quiet spots in the airport. Once you arrive in Arizona, your Divergent Adventures Itinerary will direct you to your first stop on the itinerary. From there, you will be led to many carefully selected sites for their sensory impact.

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• Your Divergent Adventure Itinerary includes Autism Certified Centers in Mesa, which often provide trained staff and special access to areas to assist you with managing your child's sensory needs. Other destinations that have not become certified may not include these but still offer an environment conducive to your family's needs.

• Why it helps: Every traveler—especially those with sensory sensitivities—needs downtime to recharge. Your Divergent Adventures Itinerary is built with those in mind and may also provide for unscheduled stops when downtime is required to help prevent overstimulation.

 

7. Practice Coping Strategies

• What to do: Work with your child on simple relaxation techniques (deep breathing, counting to ten, or having a safe word to let you know when they're anxious).

• Why it helps: Building these skills ahead of time increases independence and helps them self-regulate on the go.

 

8. Stay Flexible & Keep a Backup Plan

• What to do: Your Divergent Adventures Itinerary will offer additional sites and activities that can be useful as you manage your daily activities. Keep an eye on your child's mood and energy—be ready to pivot if you feel it is warranted.

• Why it helps: Let's face it, no matter how well you prepare, kids (and even grown-ups) sometimes just need a break. Keeping that in mind helps everyone feel more relaxed.

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