Piecing It All Together (Continued)

 

Knowing how overwhelming new places can be, we did a trial run. We visited a small local airport to peek around, watch a plane take off, and show our son where he'd soon be walking through security. Sure, it wasn't exactly the same as the major airport we'd be flying out of, but it gave a sense of routine: scanning a boarding pass, finding seats, and waiting patiently.

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I also made sure to plan for potential sensory overload. Sometimes, it only takes a loud hum of airport crowds or a jarring overhead announcement for my child to get anxious. So we practiced some coping strategies at home—deep breathing, reciting a few calm words, and making a quick "quiet place" by putting on headphones and looking at a favorite picture book.

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By the time we finally arrived in Arizona, we were ready. We'd brought our Divergent Adventures Itinerary which provides a curated list of child-friendly venues that offer accommodations for individuals with autism (think museums, parks, and even specific stores that are known to have more calm environments). We factored in some downtime—because, with the desert heat, we'd all need a break or two, especially if my son started showing signs of fatigue. Plenty of water, sunscreen, and a willingness to pivot plans when needed saved the day more than once.

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I kept reminding myself throughout the trip: "We've done the prep. Now, let's enjoy what we came here to see." And, in those moments when meltdown territory loomed, we found a shaded bench, took slow, measured breaths, and let the hustle around us fade. It wasn't perfect every moment, but the prep we did made a world of difference.

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Pro Tip: TSA Cares is a program offered to help you through the screening process. Visit the TSA CARES page for details.

 

Pro Tip: PHX - Sky Harbor Airport promotes itself as the World's Friendliest Airporrt - There are volunteers ALL WEARING PURPLE SPORT JACKETS to help you! They are everywhere walking around looking for people who need assistance. Don't hesitate to ask them anything!  

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