Therapeutic Vacation Ideas for Your Special Needs Family

Therapeutic Vacation Ideas for Your Special Needs Family

Pack your bags!  There is no time for worrying about traveling with special needs since the trip can be therapeutic.  Just think of your vacation as a fun therapy session.  Whether your family member has been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, or Cerebral Palsy, there are vacation ideas that will help your loved one thrive on the trip, and when they get back.  Don’t miss out on a great trip because of a special needs family member.  Instead, embrace the disability and focus your trip around it.  Here are some ideas to help you get started on your next vacation. 

Physical activity for ADHD

Taking a vacation with someone who has ADHD can be a very fun experience once you know how to handle their diagnosis.  There are multiple studies that have found a link between inactivity and ADHD.  Knowing this, planning an adventure themed get-a-way could cater to your family’s special needs, and you could land home with a well-adjusted child.  You can also eliminate stress by not scheduling activities for specific times.  Many ADHD patients struggle with time, so being flexible will create a calm environment for the family.

Sensory destinations for autistic family members

More research has been put into learning more about autism, which makes traveling with autistic family members that much easier.  Research has found that autistic people need sensory stimulation.  It helps them learn, but also calms them.  Use this information for traveling by picking destinations that are rich in texture.  Find a city that has a large art community and schedule some classes for the family to engage in.  Or, create your own art therapy in the city of your choice.  For example, pack essentials for ice cube painting on the beach.  These sensory activities will also help you bond with your autistic family member since they often “speak” and relate through these mediums.