Field Trips 2
We are continuing the conversation started in the podcast episode, Field Trips 1. Whether planning a trip to the grocery store or an overnight vacation, advance planning can help individuals with autism enjoy the excursion by minimizing stress factors and maximizing comfort.
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As was discussed in the first part of this discussion, Field Trips 1, spending time in public places is more tolerable if we consider factors such as timing, noise levels, type of activity, and the nature of the crowd. Beyond those practical considerations, we can usually plan events that our friends with autism can not only tolerate, but even enjoy. Here are some ideas for creative, pleasurable field trips.
1. Plan a trip to a museum or zoo early in the morning on a weekday to avoid crowds and to allow your friend with autism to enjoy exploring the exhibits. Contact the museum or zoo in advance to make certain you avoid scheduled field trips by big busloads of school students.
2. Plan visits to public parks, lakes, and beaches with lots of space for individuals with autism to roam, explore, make noise if they choose, and act naturally without concern for the perceptions of other people.
3. If staying overnight, consider booking a cottage instead of a hotel room. Staying in a little cottage relieves the stress of worrying if your friend with autism makes too much noise. This plan also works when visiting relatives. Everyone can enjoy the visit when it is not necessary to sleep in the same house as a person who has some behavior issues at bedtime or some anxiety issues when sleeping in an unfamiliar place.
TIP FOR THE DAY: Get out and about. We may encounter a few awkward or embarrassing moments, but we need not stay isolated out of fear of disturbing other people or out of concern about the reaction or perception of others.
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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