Hi everyone, I was able to get a flight for my son and me to fly down to see family for Christmas.
We have a direct 2 hr & 15 minute flight. We leave from a small airport (Madison - Dane County) and I have Pre-check, so that'll help a lot.
DS hasn't flown since he was a year old & is now 5 1/2. His Autism therapists are going to help us foreshadow the trip. He is high functioning, so as far as sensory issues, I think as long as we aren't close to the loud jets, I don't foresee having many issues as far as that. I think as long as I can keep him entertained we'll be okay.
What tips do you have for keeping kiddos entertained on a plane and for making it easier for someone with ASD?
We have been flying with our 13 year old since he was a year old. Social stories are great for younger kids, especially those who like to know exactly what is going to happen and in what order. We found that talking to our son over and over about what to expect was extremely helpful. We're in Canada so flying internationally is a bit different but here are the things we have done to prep in the past:
1. We talk to DS about the trip, where are we going, how are we getting there, how long will it take.
2. We always bring electronics for him. (Okay, and for DH and I as well! There was one long weekend trip to Seattle where I counted 8 electronic devices for 3 people) Our house rule has always been that if you are using something with sound, you are wearing headphones. This has been a non-negotiable rule and will remain one. I hate it when people watch videos in public without headphones, I find it extremely rude. I was not a big fan of DS using earbuds when he was little, so over the ear versions were our pick. He has a Nintendo DS and we try and get him a new game before each flight so he has something new to play. He also has a tablet that I pre-load with movies or tv shows.
3. When we get to the airport, we always remind him that he absolutely HAS to listen to anyone wearing an airline, security or police uniform. Again, non-negotiable rule. DS likes to joke and we have to emphasize that the airport is not a "joking" place.
4. We used to tell him that he may or may not be asked to take off his jacket and shoes. Now that he is 13, he is always asked but when he was under 12 they sometimes did and sometimes didn't. He hated not knowing if he was going to be asked but we always reminded him of the possibility.
5. Before each flight, I go out and buy some snacks and treats that DS loves. There is typically nothing for purchase on the flights that he likes except Pringles so I try and pack some slightly healthier options in his backpack...although I am happy to let him eat junk food on the plane as a treat!
6. When we get to security, I quietly let the agents know that our son is autistic and they usually get him to walk through the metal detector instead of the body scanner.
Other than that, just try and pick a seat assignment that is away from the engines if the noise bothers him. You could speak with the gate agents about doing early boarding but just remember that you will have to wait until it is your row's turn to deplane so you might want to let your son know that once you land there will be a wait and people will probably crowd into personal space.
Good luck!
