In Autism friendly, Places to stay

Ah, France! The very word invokes images of romance, arts, bucolic summers and, of course, the heavenly croissants and baguettes! But did you know that there are a few fantastic autism-friendly villas in France, for families with autistic children to enjoy a wonderful holiday – for all the family?

Oui, it’s true! Pack up your sun hats, because we're going to delve into the many benefits of an autism-friendly holiday in France, and how to successfully navigate – and enjoy – a holiday to France.

There are some great places to explore with all of your family, from the caves of Lascaux, to canoeing the Dordogne rivers.

Dordogne, in the South west of France, is a lush, rolling countryside dotted with charming medieval towns, prehistoric cave art, and serene river valleys. For children on the autism spectrum, the sensory experiences here are not just manageable but also immensely therapeutic.

Benefits:

  • Calming environment: The tranquil surroundings of Dordogne can have a calming effect, a stark contrast to the bustling cities which might be overwhelming for some children.
  • Stimulating yet not overwhelming: The rich historical sites, like the Lascaux caves with their prehistoric paintings, provide stimulation without the hustle and bustle of crowds.
  • Safe spaces: Many accommodations in the region are accustomed to families and children with diverse needs, making it easier to find that perfect holiday home.

While the scenic beauty is therapeutic in its own right, the activities you can indulge in take the holiday experience to a whole new level.

  • Nature Walks: The vast vineyards, sunflower fields, and forest trails offer perfect avenues for sensory exploration.
  • Canoeing: On the gentle waters of the Dordogne river, a family canoe trip can be both fun and soothing.
  • Culinary Delights: From local markets to child-friendly cooking classes, introduce your children to the delectable world of French cuisine in a controlled and delightful manner.

Diving into the Warm French Culture

- Social Learning: Local festivals, markets, and gatherings are wonderful places to practice social skills in real-world settings, but with the added bonus of a relaxed , non-threatening atmosphere.

- Language Skills: Whether it's just a 'bonjour' or 'merci,' using basic French phrases can be a confidence booster for many children.

- Building Resilience: Every travel experience, especially in a foreign land, offers learning moments. Missed a train? It's okay; there's always a next one. It’s a gentle way to teach adaptability.

Peace and Remoteness

The key to a successful autism-friendly holiday is a villa or accommodation that is away from everybody else – away from the hustle and bustle of a busy hotel or noisy campsite.

One perfect villa for this is GiteDordogne.co.uk, where there is exactly that – a beautifully renovated farmhouse set in 26 acres of remote French countryside, specifically designed and adapted for autistic families, with acres of grassland fields, forests and lakes, swimming pool and Games Room. 

The 5 double-bedrooms are spacious and sleep up to 14 people comfortably and because there are no near neighbours, you don’t need to worry about bothering other people, or other people over-stimulating your autistic child. The children (and, lets be honest, the adults) will enjoy the huge Games Room too.

Before you go and while you're away...

Prepare for your trip by watching videos and looking at photos of your journey and your destination with your autistic child.  The more they are prepared visually, the less unexpected things might be.  Check with your villa / accommodation that they have videos you can watch before you travel and use YouTube or TikTok to find videos through the airport or port you will use, as well as the destination itself.

While travelling and when you arrive, it is a good idea to help others around your child to be aware that this child is autistic, so they can be patient, kind and give more time.  You may already have the Sunflower lanyard, but these are a great way to discreetly indicate that you may need more time and patience. They are available from supermarkets and online, just search Sunflower Lanyards. 
If your child has sensory sensitivities, perhaps get them to wear headphones and decorate them with decals highlighting that they have autism. You can get them from AutismHeadphones.co.uk and are fantastic, eye-catching way to increase autism awareness, telling others around to be patient and kind.


Image: Autism awareness when travelling

Top Tips for Your Autism-Friendly Trip to France:

  1. Plan Ahead: Research autism-friendly accommodations and activities. Many tourism places might offer special hours or guides for children with special needs. Watch videos of your accommodation and area.
  2. Pack Sensory Tools: Familiar items like noise-cancelling headphones or favourite toys can make unfamiliar environments more comfortable.
  3. Speak to Locals: The French are known for their hospitality. A little heads-up about your child's needs (together with the autism awareness products) can lead to wonderful local recommendations or assistance.
  4. (Try to) Embrace Flexibility: The charm of France lies in its unhurried pace. If something doesn’t go as planned, it’s okay. The baguette will still be as delicious tomorrow!

An autism-friendly holiday in France, especially in the mesmerising Dordogne region, offers the right mix of relaxation, stimulation, and cultural enrichment. It's a world where history meets hospitality, and every family, irrespective of its unique needs, is welcomed with open arms. So why wait? Say 'oui' to France, and let the journey of unforgettable learning and memories begin!

Post and photos supplied by GiteDordogne.co.uk

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