"Traveling Different," by Dawn M. Barclay: A New Book for Parents of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse
Traveling with children is always challenging, but, for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder and/or mood, attention, and distraction disorders, it can be especially intimidating. How should parents of children experiencing meltdowns deal with clueless and judgmental onlookers? What are the best methods to alleviate motion sickness, when your child might already be on a cocktail of drugs? Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse answers these and many other questions parents may have when traveling with their children.
Dawn M. Barclay presents travel strategies and anecdotes from Certified Autism Travel Professionals, parents of special needs children, associations and advocates, and mental health professionals, broken down by mode of transportation and type of venue. The heart of the book outlines suggested itineraries for spectrum families as well as venues—such as museums—that cater to the unique special interests that are characteristic of individuals with autism. Less common accommodations, such as dude ranches and houseboats, are also included, as are vacations involving sports that might not immediately be associated with ASD, such as diving, skiing, and golf.
The book culminates with a resource guide of travel agents who specialize in special needs travel—as well as where to find other experts—and lists of organizations that advocate for special needs families. Noted mental health professionals offer advice throughout the book, and organizations that support the needs of this community are profiled in the resources.
Travel brings the world together, and now, thanks to a growing focus on the needs of those with special needs, it is more accessible than ever before. This book is an essential part of that effort, a resource designed to make the cultural, educational, and bonding benefits of vacations available to all.
About the Author
Dawn M. Barclay is an award-winning author who has worked in different aspects of the travel industry. She started as an agent with her parents’ firms, Barclay Travel Ltd and Barclay International Group Short-Term Apartment Rentals, and then branched out into travel trade reporting with senior or contributing editor positions at Travel Agent Magazine, Travel Life, Travel Market Report, and most recently, Insider Travel Report. She is a mother of two and resides in New York’s scenic Hudson Valley.
Praise for Traveling Different
“Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended vacation, Dawn M. Barclay’s Traveling Different will bring your family together. Filled with valuable travel tips and tools, this comprehensive guide will ease your travel worries with its thoughtful guidance surrounding numerous modes of transportation, special accommodation options, as well as suggested modifications, itineraries, and resources.”
— Amy KD Tobik, Editor-in-Chief, Exceptional Needs Today CEO, Lone Heron Publishing
“In Traveling Different, Dawn Barclay provides essential strategies and tools to improve quality of life for families with autistic and neurodivergent loved ones that will enhance their ability to travel with confidence and joy. Drawing from her years of expertise in travel and as a parent, she opens up a world of opportunities for families who are understandably hesitant to explore all that travel offers. A truly unique book that will make a huge difference in personal growth for all family members.”
— Barry M. Prizant, author of Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism
