Perfect Vacation For A Child With Autism

As individuals we  look forward to having a perfect vacation. We are often looking for the perfect time which typically is having the best weather, food and activities. As a parent of a child with autism we have the same desire but we also desire few disruptions, schedule changes and outbursts. At times we are nervous to go in public or meet up with people who don’t know our kids for fear that they will do something that dare I say embarrass us.

Two weeks ago we went on the perfect vacation. The weather was OK, the food was nice but we had an amazing time. You know why…. because we were at ease. Our son Collin is not severe by any means but at times can do things that make us cringe. What made this trip go so well was that we were surrounded by friend who could care less that Collin has autism. What makes this group so special is that they embrace him, never stare and flat our enjoy his company.

The don’t care that he flicks a sock while listening to baby Einstein. They don’t care that he will eat all the bacon for breakfast or that he literally puts Ketchup on his Ketchup when he eats burgers and fries. What they care about is that he has fun. They treat him like they would any other child and that makes us relax and smile. At first I thought that they did it because they wanted us to be comfortable but then I realized that they truly love him and enjoy his company. Sometimes I think that they like him more than us.

It is amazing that since we met this group over four years ago, our life has been so much happier. No longer do we worry about anything that Collin does because chances are if you have been around us you will see that at all times one of us is doing something that makes Collins behavior minor …. and that makes Collin smile.  He is more engaged at the beach trip than during the rest of the year. We wish we could replicate that feeling for him every day.

So it is not always about the perfect house, beach, weather of food, but it is about the perfect company and I can tell you that hopefully you are as lucky as us.

Oh and if you happen to be next to a house where 10 people are chanting Nachos, Nacho’s Nacho’s next spring break… be sure that it is us and Collin started it!!!!!!