Planning your family’s vacation with a Certified Autism Travel Professional can help you prepare for a wonderful trip together!

I’m Amy Urquhart, and I’m a Vacation Specialist and Certified Autism Travel Professional (CATP) in Ontario, Canada. I received my certification through IBCCES, an organization that provides Autism & Cognitive Disorder certification and training.

The Needs of Families Travelling with a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

I’ve learned that when travelling with a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), families want to make sure:

• The resort, ship or other destination is secure and safe for the whole family;
• The destination is approved by their therapist or doctor;
• There are limited transportation connections planned;
• That staff are well-trained in providing support and assistance to families with ASD needs;
• Sensory awareness is a consideration;
• There is an active environment available for children; and
• Their dietary needs will be accommodated.

In a recent survey conducted by IBCCES, 1,000 parents who have a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were asked, “Would you be more inclined to travel if autism friendly options were available?”

93% of respondents said yes!

How can a Certified Autism Travel Professional assist your family with vacation planning?

Planning a vacation can be a confusing and overwhelming experience for many families. Consulting a Certified Autism Travel Professional can be extremely beneficial. Here are some of the ways I can assist your family with planning a wonderful vacation together:

• I will incorporate your child’s interests into suggestions of excursions and family-friendly activities.
• I will discuss your safety concerns and talk about training and/or security measures at your destination.
• I will provide you with a schedule to assist your family when transitioning between activities or navigating your vacation destination properties.
• I will take time to understand your child’s food aversions or dietary restrictions, and communicate these on your behalf to your resort or cruise line to enable accommodations to be made.
• I’ll make use of special tools and guides provided by our preferred destinations to best meet the needs of your child.
• You’ll receive many useful tips and resources!

Recommended Destinations for Travelling with a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

When planning your family’s vacation, deciding on the right destination can make or break your plans. I can help you determine which destinations will work best for the needs and interests of your child.

I’m proud to recommend and co-ordinate travelling with a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder to the following destinations:

• Walt Disney World Resort–Services and strategies are available to “provide guests with cognitive disabilities a magical experience.”
• Disney Cruise Line–Co-ordination with Special Services on board prior to cruising, with support for embarkation and disembarkation, as well as for guest drills, shipboard activities and dining requirements.
• Universal Orlando Resort–Guidance is available to assist and provide support for guests with cognitive disabilities.
• Beaches Resorts–Beaches Resorts in Ocho Rios, Negril and Turks & Caicos have been recognized as an Advanced Certified Autism Center (ACAC).

While this isn’t an exhaustive list of autism-friendly vacation destinations, these properties have put many resources and services in place to assist families travelling with a child with ASD.