With these tips and ideas, leaving the house as a family with children with disabilities might seem a little less like a mountainous challenge
There are so many benefits of getting out, whether this is to a local park, shopping centre or to a friend’s house.
Getting fresh air and enjoying a different scenery helps to get perspective when daily things become tough. But for many families with children with disabilities, just leaving the house can seem like a mountainous challenge.
It might seem simpler and less stressful just to stay home, but getting out is so good for our (and our children’s) mood, health, and mental wellbeing. This month we look at some tips and ideas for getting out.
Planning, planning and more planning
For many of us, planning is key. Forgetting medication, or a pressure cushion at home can have disastrous consequences. While some people can grab their keys and leave, some of us have many logistics to take care of. Make a list of things that need to be packed and done before you leave and during your outing. Consider, for example:
- Times;
- How long between PEG feeding my child to getting in a car without them feeling nauseous;
- How many changes of clothing they may need;
- Nutrition including snacks and hydration, especially if it is hot;
- Comfort items or toys;
- Medication;
- Blanket for stretching/relieving
I suggest typing, saving them and printing them for future outings, making changes and updates as you go.
Controlling what you can control (and letting other stuff go)
Some of us are so used to being ‘logistics Kings and Queens’ out of necessity. Here are some things you might want to think about:
Consider the weather
Check local weather apps or reports and dress your child (and yourself) accordingly, and then pack extra in case there is an incident or the weather changes.
Prepare for travel time
Check the travel times and avoid peak rush hour traffic if you have limited time or your child doesn’t travel well. Be prepared in case there is an unexpected traffic jam or accident with backup medication and fluids.
Prebook if possible
If going to a place or event that requires a booking, book tickets online and save these on your phone or print out so that you can bypass long lines (and avoid stares and inappropriate questions about wheelchairs etc).
Bring your own
Pack your own food and snacks to save money but also eliminating the chance of there not being suitable food that your child likes or can eat.
Invite a friend
Many of us feel overwhelmed at times, and asking for help can seem very hard but many people love to help if they know what you need.
Asking a friend or family member to go with you or meet you there can help to eliminate some stress, especially if you have more than one child.
Be specific about what you need them to help you with, ideally before you leave.
Deep breaths
Try to relax and enjoy being out and about. Often, we are so focussed on what can go wrong, that we miss out on the little things such the joy that watching the wind in the trees can bring to our children.
Have an exit strategy
It is always good to have a plan B, just in case things don’t go according to plan. Have low or adjusted expectations. Sometimes just getting out the house and driving around the block before the wheels come off needs to be celebrated. You can always try again next week.
Break things into small segments and prepare your child beforehand if they get overwhelmed with change (maybe a three-hour trip to the beach is too much, break down into a 15 minute walk to a local park).
Go with your gut. You know your child the best so if you noticed they are becoming tired, overstimulated or anxious, leave. While other people or family members may be disappointed, dealing with the consequences of missing your child’s cues may be worse.
If things don’t go well, be kind to yourself and try again in a few days or weeks!
