Episode #213
Your Neurodivergent Kid Deserves a Vacation (And So Do You): 7 Tips That Actually Work
Vacation sounds dreamy...until you're the parent of a neurodivergent child navigating airports, new hotels, unfamiliar foods, and a completely blown-up routine. I see this in my practice all the time, and I've lived it myself. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to make family travel not just survivable, but genuinely good for your child and for you. I'm walking you through seven practical, real-world strategies for vacationing with neurodivergent kids, whether your child has ADHD, autism, dyslexia, sensory processing differences, or any combination of the above. From building visual itineraries to packing a sensory toolkit to giving yourself permission to ditch the perfect-trip fantasy. This is the travel prep conversation I wish someone had given me sooner. Here's my reminder to you before we dive in: messy doesn't equal failure. And your family absolutely deserves to make memories. In This Episode, I Cover: Why neurodivergent kids struggle with travel, plus what's really happening in their brains when routines break down How I recommend building a visual itinerary that actually reduces your child's anxiety before the trip even starts What I always put in a sensory toolkit (and why it's non-negotiable carry-on luggage) How to choose accommodations that set your whole family up for success The honest conversation I think every parent needs to have with their child before you leave and why overpromising a perfect trip backfires How to recognize early dysregulation and use exit strategies without guilt Why self-care isn't selfish on a family vacation and how I actually make it happen Mentioned in this episode: Find Out More About NeuroQure NeuroQure's ASD Insight™ test is the first of its kind. It detects autism risk not through behavioral observation, but through a simple, non-invasive skin sample. And it can be done as early as two days after birth. Built on eight years of rigorous academic research, ASD Insight™ gives you and your doctor actionable answers fast. Ask your pediatrician about the ASD Insight™ test, or go directly to neuroqure.com/order to take the first step. Learn More About NovaFerrum NovaFerrum is a clinically proven line of iron supplements specifically designed to solve the compliance problem — meaning, getting kids to actually take it. They offer great-tasting liquid and chewable options, no metallic taste, no artificial dyes, no added sugar, and they're gentle on little stomachs too. They even have formulas made specifically for preemies, infants, children, teens, and adults. So whatever stage you're in, they've got you covered. Because when a supplement actually tastes good? You spend less time negotiating at the kitchen counter and more time feeling confident that your child is getting what they need. Learn more at NovaFerrum.com New Book! Raising Body-Confident Kids You want your kids to love their bodies. You're still trying to do both. My new book, Raising Body-Confident Kids, helps you do both. Releases Sept 1, 2026. Pre-order your copy here: https://www.raisingbodyconfidentkids.com/books
