The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) offers certification programs to travel professionals who help families and individuals with special needs prepare for their perfect vacation.  A Certified Autism Travel Professional™ (CATP) is defined as a professional who has demonstrated that they are both knowledgeable and capable of providing support and travel related services to an individual on the autism spectrum as well as their family.

“Helping parents understand their travel options.”

It is with pleasure and honor that I have, recently, become a Certified Autism Travel Professional.    Through extensive training and educational courses, I am able to help families with a child (children) on the Autism Spectrum travel.  There is no longer a reason for families to fear traveling, because a family member is on the spectrum.

More resorts and airlines are becoming familiar with the special needs of those with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).

Hence, it is becoming a little bit easier for families to travel in confidence.  Albeit, may seem a long time coming, but the travel industry is moving forward.

For example, the Beaches Resorts (in Jamaica and the Turks & Caicos) have recently had all employees attend Autism training.  They are now able to understand and provide the special needs of babies, children, and teens who are on the spectrum.  In fact, the Beaches Resorts have added the Sesame Street character, Julia, to their team of characters at all resorts!  If you are not familiar with Julia, she is the newest character on Sesame Street.  Julia is on the Autistic Spectrum, and is teaching children, all over the world, what autism is and how to interact with someone on the spectrum.

The major airlines are, also, doing their part to become more knowledgeable about the special needs of those with autism.  For example, some airlines are open to scheduling a “test run” for families prior to travel.  Parents are able to go to the airport and go through security (TSA).  They can then sit at a gate, go onto a plane, and experience what is to come.  This is something which takes time to schedule, so be sure to contact me, long before you plan to travel.

Please reach out to me with your questions.  And, I look forward to helping you and your family travel with ease.  Hibiscus Travel  To learn more, you are welcome to visit AutismTravel.org, as well.