Does Exposure to Different Countries and Cultures Have Any Beneficial Effects on Children with Autism?

Traveling can promote social inclusion by providing children with ASD, with opportunities to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often face challenges related to social interaction, communication, and sensory processing. Traditional interventions primarily focus on therapies and educational strategies within familiar environments. However, there is growing interest in exploring the potential benefits of exposing children with ASD to diverse cultural experiences through travel.

Social Inclusion through Travelling 

Covington (2023) suggested that traveling can promote social inclusion by providing children with ASD, with opportunities to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These opportunities significantly reduce social isolation. Bringing children with ASD overseas pose many challenges, hence most parents have sought out to outcome them through traveling. 

Sensory Benefits of Traveling

Research by Li et.al., (2018) suggests that exposure to natural environments during travels such as, beaches or forests, can have a calming effect on children with ASD. The natural settings provide a space for sensory regulation and relaxation, contributions to their overall well-being and travel experience! 

Breaking out of routine 

A daily routine is a common way of helping to reduce anxiety and increase predictable encounters throughout the day (Hodgson et al., 2016). However, changing things up can open your child to new experiences! Attempts at gradually reducing behavioural rigidity; increasing flexibility to trying something new without feeling as overwhelmed (Boyd et al., 2012). South et.al.(2014) further elaborates that by introducing variations in routines, children with ASD can learn to adapt to new situations, and enhancing adaptive behaviors in individuals with ASD. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, literature and many experienced parents imply that exposure to different countries and cultures through travel can have numerous benefits for children with ASD. From enhancing social skills and sensory processing, to promoting overall well-being, travel experiences offer unique opportunities for growth and development. Nonetheless, further research is needed to explore the specific mechanisms underlying these benefits and to develop tailored interventions or strategies implemented during travels to maximise the positive impact on your child. 

Written by: Tara

References

Boyd, B. A., McDonough, S. G., & Bodfish, J. W. (2012). Evidence-based behavioural 

interventions for repetitive behaviours in autism. Journal of Autism and Developmental 

Disorder, 42(6),1236-1248. https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs10803-011-1284

Covington, T. (2023), Traveling with autism: How to handle safety, transitions and time in

transit. https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/traveling-autism/

Li, D., Larsen, L., Yang, Y., Wang, L., Zhai, Y., & Sullivan, W. C. (2019). Exposure to nature for 

children with autism spectrum disorder: Benefits, caveats, and barriers. Health & 

Place, 55, 71–79. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.11.005

South, M., Ozonoff, S., & McMahon, W. M. (2005). Repetitive behaviour profiles in Asperger

syndrome and high functioning autism. Journal of Autism and Development Disorders,

35(2), 145-158. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-004-1992-8