01 Jul Holiday Travel Tips from a Paediatric OT: Helping Kids Thrive on the Move
Travelling with children—especially during the busy holiday season—can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. As a paediatric occupational therapist, I often support families in preparing their kids for changes in routine, environment, and sensory input. Whether you’re hopping on a plane or heading overseas, here are some practical OT-informed tips to help make your trip smoother for everyone.
1. Keep Some Structure and Routine
While travel is all about new experiences, keeping a loose structure to the day can help children feel safe and settled. Try to stick to key parts of your home routine, like bedtime rituals or mealtimes, even if you’re in a different time zone.
2. Pack Comforts from Home
Don’t forget your child’s comfort items, whether it’s a favourite stuffed animal, pillowcase, or bedtime storybook. These small familiarities offer a sense of security in unfamiliar surroundings.
3. Sensory Tools are a Lifesaver
Travel can be sensory overload! Pack a small sensory kit with items like noise-cancelling headphones, chewy necklaces, fidget toys, or textured objects. Proprioceptive tools, like a weighted lap pad or resistance bands, can help ground kids who feel overstimulated.
4. Include Proprioception and Movement
Before long flights or car rides, give your child a chance to get their body moving. Activities like jumping, wall pushes, or animal walks can help regulate their sensory systems before sitting still.
5. Use Visual Supports
Create a simple visual schedule showing what to expect at the airport or during the flight. Even a basic timeline with pictures of the steps, check-in, waiting, boarding, flying, can ease anxiety and build predictability.
6. Don’t Pressure New Foods
While it’s great to explore different cuisines, travel isn’t the time to push picky eaters. Pack familiar snacks, and allow your child to try new foods at their own pace.
7. Consider the Sunflower Scheme
Many airports around the world recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme. Wearing a sunflower lanyard lets staff know that someone in your family may need extra support, patience, or time. It’s a discreet way to advocate for your child without needing to explain.
Travelling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful, with the right strategies in place, it can be a time of growth, learning, and connection. Safe travels and happy holidays!