Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism & Anxiety

Episode 8: San Diego, California: Sunshine, Sensory-Friendly Fun & Family Flexibility- Travel in 3-2-1

“A good family vacation is not about checking every attraction off a list. It is about creating enough space for connection, rest, movement, and the little moments your kids will actually remember.” In this episode, let’s head to San Diego and explore the kind of travel that feels flexible, realistic, and supportive for families raising children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or sensory needs. I talk about how a thoughtful balance of activity and downtime can make a trip feel less overwhelming. You’ll also hear practical tips for avoiding overscheduling, creating calmer transitions, and leaving room to pivot when needed. Because sometimes the most meaningful parts of a trip are the simplest ones: a beach picnic, a quiet walk on a trail, or observing animals at the zoo. Topics Covered: * 00:00:00 – Introduction * 00:00:24 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety * 00:01:28 – Why San Diego works for low-stress family travel * 00:02:13 – The importance of slowing down and doing less * 00:03:38 – Stop #1: Coronado Island beaches * 00:05:29 – Stop #2: San Diego Zoo * 00:06:36 – Managing overstimulation at big attractions * 00:08:45 – Stop #3: Cabrillo National Monument * 00:10:52 – Food Stop #1: Clayton’s Coffee Shop * 00:11:17 – Food Stop #2: The Taco Stand * 00:12:16 – Travel tip: Build buffer time into your days * 00:13:23 – Meeting your kids where they are while traveling About Your Host: Dr. Josette Bianchi is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and a travel lover who believes families should feel confident exploring the world together. Through Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, she shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and encouragement for families raising children with big feelings, sensory needs, or behavioral differences. Combining her medical background with her perspective as a parent, Dr. Bianchi helps families plan flexible, sensory-friendly trips. Each episode offers simple ideas, honest stories, and helpful tools to make travel more manageable and more meaningful for neurodiverse families. Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: * Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com [familytravelsupport@gmail.com]; josettemarie@gmail.com [josettemarie@gmail.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/] * Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports  [https://www.instagram.com/familytravelthatsupports/] * Linktree (click here to access our Family Travel Resource Library): https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport [https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport] Resources: * Beach accessibility:https://www.sandiego.org/article/san-diego-beach-wheelchairs [https://www.sandiego.org/article/san-diego-beach-wheelchairs] * San Diego Zoo:https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/ [https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/] * Cabrillo Monument:https://www.nps.gov/cabr/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm [https://www.nps.gov/cabr/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm] * Crown City Inn:https://www.crowncityinn.com/ [https://www.crowncityinn.com/] * Accessible attractions (including zoo, Cabrillo):https://www.sandiego.org/plan-your-trip/visitors-centers-information/disabled-visitor-resources-for-san-diego-attractions   [https://www.sandiego.org/plan-your-trip/visitors-centers-information/disabled-visitor-resources-for-san-diego-attractions]

State park series #2: The State Park We Couldn't Believe We Didn't Know About

“Family trips feel different when there is finally enough room for everyone to slow down, shift gears when needed, and enjoy the day without constantly trying to keep up.” In this episode, I continue our Summer State Park Mini-Series with a visit to Huntington Beach State Park, located just outside Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. While Myrtle Beach is often known for its crowds, attractions, and busy boardwalks, Huntington Beach State Park offers a quieter and more flexible alternative for families looking to slow down and connect with nature. In this episode, I share why this park worked so well for our family, including opportunities for wildlife spotting, beach exploration, movement, and unstructured outdoor play. We also discuss why lower-pressure destinations can be especially helpful for families raising children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and other behavioral differences. You'll learn: * Why flexibility can make family travel less stressful * How nature-based destinations can support regulation and exploration * What makes Huntington Beach State Park a great addition to a Myrtle Beach itinerary * Why some of our favorite travel memories happen away from the crowds This episode is a reminder that meaningful family travel does not have to be packed with nonstop activity. Sometimes the trips that work best are the ones that leave enough space for everyone to slow down, adjust when needed, and genuinely enjoy being together. Topics Covered: * 00:00:00 – Introduction * 00:00:14 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety * 00:01:25 – Introduction to Huntington Beach State Park * 00:03:41 – Reason #1: Variety without overplanning * 00:04:49 – Reason #2: Beach environment without constant stimulation * 00:05:26 – Reason #3: Wildlife and nature engagement * 00:06:21 – Exploring the Nature Center and touch tanks * 00:07:30 – Who Huntington Beach State Park works best for * 00:08:17 – Flexible travel and peaceful family moments * 00:09:01 – Closing thoughts and encouragement About Your Host: Dr. Josette Bianchi is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and a travel lover who believes families should feel confident exploring the world together. Through Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, she shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and encouragement for families raising children with big feelings, sensory needs, or behavioral differences. Combining her medical background with her perspective as a parent, Dr. Bianchi helps families plan flexible, sensory-friendly trips. Each episode offers simple ideas, honest stories, and helpful tools to make travel more manageable and more meaningful for neurodiverse families. Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: * Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com [familytravelsupport@gmail.com]; josettemarie@gmail.com [josettemarie@gmail.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/] * Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports  [https://www.instagram.com/familytravelthatsupports/]

Episode 7: Mystic, CT: A Low-Stress Family Trip That Still Feels Special — Travel in 3-2-1

In this episode, I talk about the kind of travel that feels like a deep exhale. Not overpacked, not overwhelming, just right for your family. Using a trip to Mystic, Connecticut, I share how a thoughtful mix of activity, downtime, and flexibility can turn a good trip into a smooth one.  This episode is a reminder that the best trips are not the busiest or flashiest ones. They are the ones where everyone actually enjoys the day. Yes, even the parents and caregivers. Join us as we embark on a tour of this quaint New England village. Mystic is a perfect addition to a New England itinerary or as a day trip from many northeast cities. Topics Covered: * 00:00:01 – Not every trip has to be big to be meaningful * 00:00:14 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety * 00:01:38 – Why Mystic, Connecticut works for low-stress travel * 00:02:57 – Stop #1: Mystic Aquarium * 00:03:41 – Hands-on exhibits and sensory considerations * 00:05:36 – Outdoor breaks and pacing your visit * 00:06:48 – Stop #2: Old Mystic Village * 00:08:25 – Stop #3: Nature Center for quiet reset time * 00:09:56 – Food Stop #1: Jealous Monk and timing tips * 00:11:10 – Food Stop #2: Drawbridge Ice Cream stop * 00:12:15 – Travel tip: choosing the right season * 00:13:24 – Adjusting expectations for your family About Your Host: Dr. Josette Bianchi is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and a travel lover who believes families should feel confident exploring the world together. Through Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, she shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and encouragement for families raising children with big feelings, sensory needs, or behavioral differences. Combining her medical background with her perspective as a parent, Dr. Bianchi helps families plan flexible, sensory-friendly trips. Each episode offers simple ideas, honest stories, and helpful tools to make travel more manageable and more meaningful for neurodiverse families. Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: * Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com [familytravelsupport@gmail.com]; josettemarie@gmail.com [josettemarie@gmail.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/] * Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports  [https://www.instagram.com/familytravelthatsupports/] * Linktree: https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=2495bd26-727a-42c8-8505-0b16943debab [https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=2495bd26-727a-42c8-8505-0b16943debab] Resources: * Mystic aquarium: https://www.mysticaquarium.org [https://www.mysticaquarium.org/] * Old Mistick Village: https://oldemistickvillage.com/about/ * DenisonPequotsepos Nature Center:  https://dpnc.org/ [https://dpnc.org/]

State park series #1: Letchworth State Park: Space, Movement, and Easy Logistics

“Travel becomes different when families stop trying to force themselves into vacations that leave everyone overstimulated, exhausted, and overwhelmed.” In this episode, I kick off a special summer state park miniseries for families raising children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and other behavioral differences with a visit to Letchworth State Park in Western New York. This conversation explores why travel feels different when families stop trying to force packed itineraries and start choosing experiences that leave room to slow down, regulate, and actually enjoy being together. I share why Letchworth has become one of my favorite family travel destinations and how quieter nature spaces, flexible activities, and lower-pressure environments helped our family feel calmer, more connected, and less overwhelmed while traveling. This episode is a reminder that meaningful family travel is not about doing the most. It is about creating experiences that genuinely support your family. Topics Covered: * 00:00:00 – Introduction * 00:00:16 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety * 00:00:48 – Summer state park miniseries introduction * 00:01:39 – Benefits of state park travel * 00:02:40 – Introduction to Letchworth State Park * 00:04:19 – Reason #1: Open space and slower pacing * 00:05:18 – Reason #2: Wide variety of activities for all ages * 00:06:37 – Reason #3: Easy logistics and low-stress travel * 00:07:09 – Why waterfalls can feel therapeutic for kids * 00:07:55 – Returning to Letchworth through every season * 00:08:25 – Closing About Your Host: Dr. Josette Bianchi is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and a travel lover who believes families should feel confident exploring the world together. Through Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, she shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and encouragement for families raising children with big feelings, sensory needs, or behavioral differences. Combining her medical background with her perspective as a parent, Dr. Bianchi helps families plan flexible, sensory-friendly trips. Each episode offers simple ideas, honest stories, and helpful tools to make travel more manageable and more meaningful for neurodiverse families. Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: * Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com [familytravelsupport@gmail.com]; josettemarie@gmail.com [josettemarie@gmail.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/] * Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports Resources: * https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/letchworth-state-park [https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/letchworth-state-park] * https://autismnaturetrail.com/ [https://autismnaturetrail.com/]

Episode 6: Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor, Maine— Where Nature Meets Flexibility — Travel with Kids in 3-2-1

“Sometimes the most memorable moments happen when you slow the pace and let the day unfold.” In this episode, we explore Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, Maine, and how to turn a popular summer destination into a calm, flexible family adventure. We share how to enjoy nature without the pressure of doing everything, and how small, thoughtful choices can make travel feel easier, more grounded, and more enjoyable for the whole family. You’ll also hear practical tips for planning ahead so you can spend less time stressed and more time present in the experience. This episode is a reminder that family travel can be simple, spacious, and deeply memorable. Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:01:37 – Episode focus: Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, Maine 00:02:20 – Accessibility, pacing, and honoring different family needs 00:03:25 – National Park planning tip: passes and reservations 00:04:04 – Place #1: Bar Island Land Bridge + tide pools 00:06:40 – Place #2: Easy hiking options in Acadia 00:08:03 – Travel tip: parking, timing, and backup plans 00:09:23 – Place #3: Great Maine Lumberjack Show 00:10:55 – Food option #1: Sea Ray’s Lobster Pound 00:11:44 – Food option #2: Jordan Snack Bar in Ellsworth 00:13:29 – Travel Tip: Plan ahead for park access and reservations 00:14:57 – Flexible travel makes meaningful family experiences About Your Host: Dr. Josette Bianchi is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and a travel lover who believes families should feel confident exploring the world together. Through Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, she shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and encouragement for families raising children with big feelings, sensory needs, or behavioral differences. Combining her medical background with her perspective as a parent, Dr. Bianchi helps families plan flexible, sensory-friendly trips. Each episode offers simple ideas, honest stories, and helpful tools to make travel more manageable and more meaningful for neurodiverse families. Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: * Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com [familytravelsupport@gmail.com]; josettemarie@gmail.com [josettemarie@gmail.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/] * Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports  [https://www.instagram.com/familytravelthatsupports/] Resources: * https://www.recreation.gov/search?q=acadia  [https://www.recreation.gov/search?q=acadia] * https://www.usharbors.com/harbor/maine/bar-harbor-me/tides/  [https://www.usharbors.com/harbor/maine/bar-harbor-me/tides/] * https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/interagency-access-pass.htm  [https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/interagency-access-pass.htm] * https://mainelumberjack.com/  [https://mainelumberjack.com/]