Navigating a foreign holiday with a young child who has additional needs can feel like a daunting prospect, but one travel writer has shared her family's remarkably positive experience, offering hope and practical advice to others.
Preparing for Takeoff: Passports and Airport Assistance
Mari Ellis Dunning, a travel writer for The Independent, recently detailed her family's holiday to Fuerteventura, a trip that was particularly meaningful as it included her youngest son, a three-year-old referred to as E. E exhibits some autism spectrum disorder behaviour and has mobility requirements.
The journey began at Birmingham Airport, where the family proactively used the Sunflower Lounge. This facility provided a crucial quiet space, allowing them to escape the airport's overwhelming bustle before their flight.
Even before reaching the airport, Mari tackled the common parental challenge of passport applications. She successfully managed to capture a suitable photo of E, who is non-verbal, open-mouthed and smiling. She highlighted a little-known rule from the Passport Office: children under six do not need to be looking directly at the camera or have a plain expression.
A Smooth Flight and Adaptive Holiday Fun
Mari's pre-flight anxiety centred on explaining to E that he would need to remain seated during take-off and landing. "I knew I wouldn't be able to explain this to E, who is non-verbal, and frequently wants to be sat on my lap or held, especially in unfamiliar situations," she wrote. Fortunately, the reality was much easier, and the flight proceeded without any problems.
Upon arrival in Fuerteventura, the family demonstrated flexibility. While the beach wasn't accessible for wheelchairs or prams, Mari simply carried E when his small wheelchair couldn't be used. Their hotel, however, was a resounding success. The splash pool provided enjoyment for both E and his older sibling.
"Going somewhere with ample entertainment for children is a must, regardless of additional learning needs," Mari advised. The evening mini discos were a particular highlight, bustling with children from around the world. E enjoyed the music and observed the other children, while Mari was struck by the non-verbal communication between children of different nationalities.
Broader Implications for Accessible Family Travel
Mari's experience underscores that with a bit of planning and the right support, family holidays are entirely possible and deeply rewarding for those with additional needs. Her story resonates with other families, such as the British couple Dan and Lou Liba, who sold everything to travel the world with their three children, partly driven by the challenge of finding suitable groups for their son Otis, who has special educational needs.
The successful use of the Sunflower Lounge at Birmingham Airport points to the growing importance of hidden disabilities awareness within the travel industry. For families like Mari's, these small accommodations make a world of difference, transforming a potentially stressful journey into a manageable and enjoyable adventure.
