We See the World Differently

Exploring historical sites, museums, and natural landscapes is a great way for anyone to learn about the world. This is especially true for children who are verbally or intellectually challenged.

Travel helps children with special needs to practice social and communication skills, learn to adapt to new environments, and build self confidence. Kids with very specific narrow interests (like trains or dinosaurs) love investigating their favorite topic in a brand new place.

My husband Phil and I are older parents of a teen girl G with autism, enrolled in a year round program at a special needs school. We don’t fit in well with the typical tour group - we need a slower pace, with flexibility for sensory breaks. We plan school vacation trips to places that adults like us want to visit in a way that makes them manageable and fun for our daughter.

Lucky for us — G is delighted to swap out her usual, rigid routines for new experiences. She’s always looking forward to the next Great Adventure!

So far, the three of us have made it to a dozen National Parks, 23 US States, a few places in Canada, seven European countries and Morocco.

Make vacation travel part of your family’s special education. We wish you a safe and interesting journey!

—Mary Lusardi