Taking a child with autism anywhere can be a scary prospect. You never know when your child might have his next temper tantrum. Going on an airplane is 10 times scarier than just taking your child to your local farmers market. You not only worry about your child's safety, but their behavior and how that behavior will affect other passengers' moods and potential safety. You don't won't to make enemies, or worse, be forced off the airplane. Luckily, there are ways that you can prepare your child for a safe and fun trip.
Visual Preparedness Before the Flight
Preparing your child ahead of time is the biggest key to ensuring a safe flight that you, your child and other passengers will enjoy. For at least a week in advance, show the child pictures of airplanes, the airport you will be going to, security officers and flight personnel. Show interior photos with people on the plane. Mentally prepare your child as much as possible visually. If the child can visualize what to expect on the flight, this can greatly lessen any fears he may have and any potential meltdowns, as well.
Verbal Preparedness Before the Flight
Aside from visually preparing your child for the flight, you will also want to verbally prepare him as well. You will want to explain things as thoroughly as possible. Explain to your child ahead of time all of the procedures such as security checkpoints, waiting time to board the flight and how long the flight will take. Be as thorough as possible. Explain to your child what will be expected of him and that if he doesn't obey the rules then the airplane will have to stop to drop him off. Be sure to explain the rules at least once a day for a week in advance. Have the child repeat the rules back to you if possible.
Show excitement for going to the airport.
Be careful of the words that you use when preparing your child for riding on an airplane. Don't show fear of going on the airplane and be wary of telling your child to not be "afraid" of going on the airplane. Even though you are telling your child there is nothing to be "afraid" of, he may still equate the word "afraid" with something that he needs to be afraid of. Instead, use positive words such as "it's going to be really exciting to go on the airplane!"
The Night Before/Day of Flight
Make sure the child has plenty of sleep the night before and a big breakfast in the morning. You don't want your child to get too hungry on the flight and start a temper tantrum from a stomachache or from not having enough sleep.
Plane Activities
Keeping your child occupied is a good way to ensure he does not disturb the other passengers. Get something for your child to do. If it is a long flight, plan accordingly. Bring video games if your child likes video games, hot wheels, books, etc. Also, be sure to bring light snacks (if allowed) onto the flight for your child in case he gets hungry.
What to do if Your Child Misbehaves?
A temper tantrum is a possibility. The best thing to do is to prepare the passengers and crew ahead of time. Page the flight attendants before takeoff, explaining your fears for your child and that your child has autism. Also, tell the passengers sitting next to and across from you about your child having autism. Honesty ahead of time can help things out a great deal. You may also want to consider discussing with your child's pediatrician your plans to take a flight. Ask them if they can prescribe medication that can make your child sleepy or help them relax. Use this medicine sparingly and only when you really need to.
0 comments:
Post a Comment