From passport applications to getting settled on the flight and becoming accustomed to the hotel, one traveller opened up about how she navigated going on holiday abroad with her child who has additional learning needs.
Travel writer Mari Ellis Dunning revealed in The Independent all about her family holiday to Fuerteventura.
Her youngest son, who she refers to as E and is three years old, has some autism spectrum disorder behaviour and mobility needs.
The family flew from Birmingham Airport where they made use of the Sunflower Lounge and were able to escape the busy hub.
When it came to flying, Mari was concerned about explaining to E that he would have to stay in his seat during take-off and landing.
‘I knew I wouldn’t be able to explain this to E, who is non-verbal, and frequently wants to be sat on my lap or held, especially in unfamiliar situations,’ she wrote.
Fortunately, the reality proved to be much easier and no problems cropped up during the flight.
Before the trip even began, Mari described the process of getting their passports in check – a task many families battle with in preparation for their holiday.
Travel writer Mari Ellis Dunning revealed in The Independent all about her family holiday to Fuerteventura
Mari managed to take a photo of E, open-mouthed and smiling, which met the requirements.
‘Children under 6 do not have to be looking directly at the camera or have a plain expression,’ the Passport Office’s website states.
Once in Fuerteventura, Mari and her family were able to adapt to some areas like the beach, which didn’t prove to be accessible for wheelchairs or prams.
E uses a small wheelchair when tired but Mari was able to carry him on the beach when needed.
Meanwhile, at the hotel the splash pool was a success for both E and his older sibling.
‘Going somewhere with ample entertainment for children is a must, regardless of additional learning needs,’ Mari said.
As for the night-time entertainment, the mother-of-two described mini discos bustling with children from around the world.
Mari’s youngest son was able to enjoy the music and observed the other children.
Her youngest son, who she refers to as E and is three years old, has some autism spectrum disorder behaviour and mobility needs (stock)
She recalled being ‘struck’ by the ability of the children of different nationalities and languages to communicate with one another without words.
Mari described how her eldest son was able to enjoy playing with other children during the trip.
British couple Dan and Lou Liba sold everything they owned earlier this year to travel the world with their three children – and have revealed their ‘only regret is not doing it sooner’.
The pair had struggled with finding appropriate groups and educational settings for their son Otis, who has special educational needs.
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Mum reveals how she navigated first holiday abroad with child with additional learning needs
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