Traveling with Small Children – Especially Those with Sensory Needs

By: Tracy Williams-Healy MS, OTR/L, Supervisor of Occupational Therapy

Traveling with young children can be a rewarding adventure, but it also comes with unique challenges—particularly when a child has sensory sensitivities. Whether it’s a road trip, a flight, or a train journey, a little planning can go a long way toward making the experience smoother for everyone.

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Children with sensory needs often feel more secure when they know what to expect. Visual schedules, social stories, or even a short video showing the destination and journey can help them anticipate what’s coming. Book travel during times of day when your child is typically calmest and leave extra time for transitions.

Pack Comfort Items
Familiar objects—favorite snacks, a soft blanket, noise-canceling headphones, or a beloved toy—can provide a sense of stability in unfamiliar environments. These small comforts can be a lifeline during overstimulating moments.

Create a Sensory Toolkit
A “travel kit” with items like fidget toys, chewy necklaces, or sunglasses can help your child self-regulate. For flights, consider downloading favorite shows or music to a tablet ahead of time.

Choose Your Environment Wisely
Look for quieter spaces, whether that’s booking seats toward the back of the plane, staying in smaller accommodations, or taking breaks in low-traffic rest areas. Some airports now offer sensory rooms, which can be a haven during layovers.

Be Flexible
Perhaps the most important thing is to expect the unexpected. Children—especially those with sensory needs—may need extra breaks or changes in plans. Patience and flexibility can turn potential stress into an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the journey together.

With thoughtful preparation, traveling with small children can become less daunting and more enriching!