Traveling with special needs Family members requires careful planning and consideration. Families with individuals who have special needs often face challenges when stepping outside their everyday routines and familiar environments. As a result, many of these Families choose not to take vacations. A 2019 survey found that 87% of Families with at least one child with autism do not go on family vacations due to the complexities involved.

Popular destinations like theme parks and beaches can present overwhelming stimuli, such as bright lights, loud sounds, strong smells and unfamiliar textures. However, an increasing number of resorts, theme parks, museums and other family attractions are beginning to recognize the need for accommodations to support guests with special needs.

Planning any vacation can be stressful and requires a lot of research beforehand, so we have put together a list of options to help jumpstart your planning.

Travel and Vacation Options for Neurodiverse Families

• For special needs Families traveling by air, the TSA Cares program provides considerations during the security screening process to assist in a smooth and seamless experience.
• If a visit to our nation’s capital is on the itinerary, the Smithsonian Museum offers Morning at the Museum—a free program that provides sensory-friendly programs to visitors with special needs and their Families.
• Florida- and California-based theme parks also offer support services for guests who are sensitive to scents, lighting effects, attraction speeds and other elements.
• For space fans, the Kennedy Space Visitor Complex is a Certified Autism Center. To ensure a more accessible experience, it offers low sensory areas among its many services.
• If you want to set sail, several cruise lines offer autism-friendly ships. Even cruise lines that do not have designated ships for special needs Families often offer activities to help ensure the entire Family stays safe and is able to join in the family fun.
• For snow-loving Families, many ski resorts—from the Rocky Mountains to East Coast destinations—offer adaptive lessons and other accommodations to support the entire Family.

For special needs Army Families looking for the best travel and vacation options near their post or across the country, Military OneSource can provide resources and information.

About Enterprise Exceptional Family Member Program

The E-EFMP system is a secure digital platform that streamlines enrollment, simplifies assignment coordination and improves access to support services for Families with special needs. E-EFMP automates all EFMP screening, including overseas family travel screening. Its case management component allows Families to safely and securely upload EFMP documents, eliminating the need to carry hard copies during moves. Families can manage their EFMP enrollment throughout their loved one’s Army career, benefitting from synchronized care and support services.

Visit the E-EFMP site regularly as updates and new information are added frequently.

By Kristen Murphy, Directorate of Prevention, Resilience and Readiness