We all look forward to holidays. It’s that precious time to step away from the daily grind and recharge. But for many families, the very thing that makes a holiday appealing can be the source of significant anxiety for children. If you care for an autistic child, or a child who simply thrives on predictability, the shift from the familiar school run to a week of unstructured freedom can feel overwhelming, rather than relaxing.
However, with a bit of preparation and a flexible mindset, you can create a getaway that works for everyone.
Preparation Starts at Home
The journey actually begins long before you pack the suitcases. Children who find change difficult often fear the unknown. You can reduce this anxiety by making the unknown familiar. Show them photos of where you are staying, the local beach, or the airport. If you are a foster carer, you might not have a lifetime of shared holidays to draw upon, so spending time looking at maps, or videos of the destination together, can help build a sense of shared anticipation and safety for your foster child.
Visual countdowns are also brilliant. A simple calendar on the fridge where they can cross off the days provides a concrete timeline, helping them process that a transition is coming.
Keep Some Anchors in Place
While the location changes, the rhythm of the day doesn’t have to vanish entirely. Try to maintain a few “anchors” from your home life. If your child is used to a story before bed or a specific snack at 11 am, keep doing it. These small, familiar touchstones act as safety nets.
For an autistic child, sensory familiarity is just as important as routine. Bring their own pillow, a favourite blanket, or even the specific plate they like to use. It might seem like extra luggage, but having a sensory “safe space” can make the difference between a meltdown and a peaceful evening.
Build a Flexible Itinerary
It is tempting to pack every day with excursions to make the most of the trip. Resist this urge. A jam-packed schedule is often a recipe for sensory overload. Instead, plan for “low demand” days.
Create a visual timetable for the holiday, but keep it loose. You might have a morning activity and then a blank space for the afternoon. This allows your child to see what is happening without feeling rushed. If you are fostering in Coventry or elsewhere, this approach shows the child that you respect their pace and aren’t going to force them into situations they aren’t ready for.
Managing the Unexpected
Even the best plans can go awry. Flights get delayed, or it rains when you planned a beach day. When plans change, your reaction sets the tone. If you stay calm and frame the change as a “new adventure” or a “cosy indoor day,” it helps the child regulate their own emotions.
Have a backup plan ready, like a loaded tablet, a bag of fidget toys, or a favourite game that can be deployed instantly if waiting times stretch out.
A Meaningful Break
Holidays don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. By adjusting your expectations and focusing on comfort, rather than cramming in activities, you create an environment where your child feels safe. Whether you are a parent, or a foster carer, the goal is connection. When your child feels understood and supported, you can all enjoy the change of scenery together.
Image: Depositphotos
