5 reasons why you should take your autistic child camping.

I have always loved camping. The freedom to totally forget about time, sitting around drinking numerous cups of tea whilst the kids run about, sitting outside at night with a blanket and a glass (or 2) of wine, looking at the stars and talking about completely random stuff.

Of course, it’s not very nice if the weather is bad, and let me tell you, I’ve had my fair share of camping trips when the weather has been hideous. Even then I still really enjoy it.

I highly recommend taking your autistic child camping. I first took Edward camping when he was four. I wasn’t sure about it at first. I was terrified that he would just disappear or go off with a stranger. I was so anxious about it that I went with a friend so i had someone else to help keep an eye on him. I also did some forward planning. Firstly I spoke to the campsite to see if there was anything they could do to support us. Things like take a description of Edward and alert all staff to this, give Edward a wristband that has my phone number on in case he is found alone.

Fortunately we didn’t need to use this because I stayed alert the whole time and didn’t leave him unattended. Exhausting for Mummy yes, but we all had a fab time.

1. They will love the freedom.

Edward loves being in his own little world doing his own thing. So hanging out in a camping field is ideal for him. He loves to wander around picking up sticks and leaves etc.

2. Not many demands are placed on them.

When camping, there are no time restraints, you can eat breakfast/lunch/dinner at whatever time you like.

It also doesn’t matter how long they spend outside, or how long they want to spend in their pyjamas.

So camping takes away the daily time pressures and demands.

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3. They will also love a sleeping bag.

Another worry that I had was whether or not he would sleep at night and if he did wake up, what would he do?

Edward is actually in love with his sleeping bag. During the day, when he’s had enough of running around outside he would grab his tablet and get into his sleeping bag in the bedroom compartment. He loves just chilling and having time to himself.

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At night, Edward was just so excited to sleep on his inflatable mattress in his sleeping bag so he was fine. Also, I think it’s quite calming in the inner tent so this also helps.

4. More acceptance and understanding

Generally I find that most people on campsites are pretty jolly, well they are on holiday after all. They’re much more understanding and accepting of autistic children.

This means we can all relax and not stress about being judged.

5. You can still have a routine.

Even though camping is a completely different set up to home, you can still have a routine that most autistic children love.

For example, get up, have breakfast, get dressed, got to the park, have lunch, go for a swim, have tea, play, go to bed.

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It’s a simple Relaxed routine with no time restraints so Edward loves it.

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So, what do you think? Have you taken your autistic child camping? I’d love to hear from you, let me know your experiences.