Many individuals on the autism spectrum can have difficulty with environments that are too large, crowded, noisy, or otherwise overstimulating. As a result, many parents of children with autism express a tendency to avoid altogether certain places that they know will cause their child excessive stress or discomfort. Unfortunately, this may also lead families to miss out on opportunities such as enjoying a family vacation because the thought of exposing one’s child to a setting as stimulating as an airport can seem extremely daunting.

Luckily, the Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) and Delta Airlines have organized a special event to address this particular concern by offering an airport simulation opportunity. Taking place on April 13th at Detroit Metro Airport, families will be able to practice the typical airport routines of going through the security check, boarding the plane, listening to flight announcements and more, with AAoM staff available for assistance. The event, named On Board with Autism, will be free of charge, with tickets available on a first come, first serve basis.

Check out the AAoM’s facebook page for more details about this event and a link to a sign-up page. And stay tuned to our blog for news about other upcoming autism-friendly events in the community: https://www.facebook.com/events/2052819654839550/