Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism & Anxiety

Josette Bianchi

Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism & Anxiety is a podcast for families who love to travel and are raising children with big feelings, behavioral challenges, and neurodiverse needs. Hosted by Josette Bianchi—a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and travel lover—this show shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and supportive strategies for traveling with kids who don’t always fit the typical mold. Most episodes follow a simple 3-2-1 format: three places to explore, two places to eat, and one helpful travel tip for families in a featured location. Along the way, we’ll also dive into topics and/or interviews covering sensory-friendly travel planning, managing behavior challenges on the go, flying with neurodiverse kids, and choosing destinations that support flexibility and fun, and more. This podcast isn’t about curating perfect trips. It’s about adapting, adjusting, and finding what works for your family—because travel can be meaningful, empowering, and even joyful when we stop comparing and start connecting. Whether you're planning your first family getaway or you're already seasoned travelers, this podcast is here to help you feel seen, supported, and inspired to wander without limits.

  1. Aug 17

    Episode 12: Riviera Maya: An approachable international trip for families: Travel in 3-2-1

    Did you know Riviera Maya is one of the few places where you can explore ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea and still spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach? In this solo episode, I share what made Riviera Maya such a manageable and memorable destination for our multigenerational family. From choosing a resort that reduces decision fatigue to exploring the Mayan ruins of Tulum, wandering through the colorful streets of Valladolid, and finding simple ways to introduce kids to local culture and cuisine, you'll hear practical tips for planning a trip that meets your family where they are. Whether you're considering your first international vacation or looking for a destination that offers both adventure and breathing room, this episode will help you create a travel experience that's enjoyable, flexible, and filled with meaningful family moments. Topics Covered: 00:00 – Introduction 00:30 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 01:17 – What makes the destination easy to explore 02:48 – #1: Making the most of your resort 04:01 – Why all-inclusive works for families 05:06 – Choosing the right resort 07:17 – Kids' clubs: Finding the right fit 08:23 – #2: Visiting the Tulum ruins 09:26 – Tips for choosing family-friendly tours 11:09 – #3: A relaxing stop in Valladolid 12:24 – Eat #1: Why resort buffets are great for families 13:50 – Eat #2: Make time for one local meal 14:25 – Tip #1: Book a family photo session 15:10 – Meaningful travel doesn't have to be complicatedAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports

    Episode 12: Riviera Maya: An approachable international trip for families: Travel in 3-2-1

  2. Aug 3

    Episode 11: Sensory-Friendly Broadway: How Children with ADHD, Autism, And Anxiety Can Enjoy Theater Experiences in NYC

    In this episode, I’m joined by theater educator, performer, and arts administrator Erica Giglio Pac to explore how families can confidently enjoy Broadway and live theater with children who have different needs. We discuss how sensory-friendly performances work, why theater supports children’s growth and confidence, and practical ways to prepare for a positive experience. From choosing the right show to easing parent concerns, this episode offers helpful guidance for families ready to embrace the magic of live theater. Topics Covered: 00:00 – Introduction 00:38 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 02:13 – Introducing our guest, Erica Giglio Pac 03:36 – A childhood play that inspired Erica 05:09 – Theater as a learning tool 16:38 – Reducing parent worries 20:19 – Sensory-friendly Broadway and NYC theater options 22:35 – Preparing for a first Broadway show 23:38 –  Tips for seats, planning, and preparation 26:15 – Making live theater a positive experience 28:01 – Long Island sensory-friendly shows 31:35 – Every child deserves the magic of theaterAbout Our Guest: Erica Giglio Pac is an experienced school administrator, arts leader, and educator with a passion for making high-quality arts education accessible to all students. She serves as the K–12 Director of Fine, Performing, and Media Arts for the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District and is an adjunct professor in Adelphi University’s Educational Theatre program, where she helps prepare the next generation of theater educators. Connect with Erica: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erica_giglio_pac/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-giglio-pac-23659868/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. Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports Resources: TDF Autism Friendly Performances: https://www.tdf.org/accessibility-services/tdf-autism-friendly-performances/ New Victory Theater: https://www.newvictory.org/ Lincoln Center Relaxed Performances: https://lincolncenter.org/series/accessibility-at-lincoln-center/s/Relaxed%20Performances

    Episode 11: Sensory-Friendly Broadway: How Children with ADHD, Autism, And Anxiety Can Enjoy Theater Experiences in NYC

  3. Jul 27

    State Park Series #5: State Park Summer Mini-Series-Niagara Falls State Park: A Calmer Way to Experience This Natural Wonder

    “When people think of Niagara Falls, they often imagine crowds, attractions, and packed schedules. But sometimes, the most memorable way to experience a famous destination is to step away from the noise and simply enjoy the wonder in front of you.” In this episode, I wrap up our summer state park miniseries with a visit to Niagara Falls State Park in New York. While Niagara Falls is often associated with crowds, attractions, and busy itineraries, I share why the state park side offers a different experience. With open spaces, beautiful views, flexible activities, and a stronger focus on nature, it gave our family the opportunity to experience one of the world's most famous destinations without feeling pressured to do it all. You'll also hear practical insights on navigating sensory considerations around the falls, planning for multi-generational travel, choosing experiences that fit different energy levels, and why stepping away from the crowds can sometimes lead to the most memorable family moments. Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:29 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:00:57 – Introduction to Niagara Falls State Park 00:02:22 – A memorable multi-generational family trip 00:04:53 – Reason #1: The falls are the attraction 00:05:54 – Reason #2: More space and less pressure 00:07:03 – Reason #3: Flexible experiences for every age 00:08:18 – When travel doesn’t go perfectly 00:09:12 – Adapting, pivoting, and making memories 00:09:51 – Who Niagara Falls State Park is best for 00:10:22 – A calmer way to experience Niagara FallsAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports Family Travel Resource Library available at our linktree: https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport

    State Park Series #5: State Park Summer Mini-Series-Niagara Falls State Park: A Calmer Way to Experience This Natural Wonder

  4. Jul 20

    Episode 10: Shenandoah National Park: Easy Adventure for Neurodivergent Families-Travel in 3-2-1

    In this episode, I share our family’s experience visiting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. While Shenandoah may not have the dramatic landscapes of some of the western national parks, it offers something many families truly need: accessibility, manageable hikes, scenic drives, flexible plans, and beautiful mountain views without the pressure of an overwhelming itinerary. You’ll also hear practical tips on choosing family-friendly hikes, pairing Shenandoah with Luray Caverns, using Skyline Drive on lower-energy days, and appreciating this park for what it is instead of comparing it to other national parks. Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:38 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:01:35 – Introduction to Shenandoah National Park 00:02:48 – Place #1: Family-friendly hikes 00:04:37 – Limberlost Trail and accessibility 00:06:10 – Adaptive hiking cart information 00:06:37 – Place #2: Luray Caverns 00:08:02 – Place #3: Skyline Drive 00:09:07 – Eat #1: Big Meadows Lodge 00:10:33 – Eat #2: Gathering Grounds 00:11:05 – Travel tip: Appreciate Shenandoah for what it is 00:12:52 – Closing thoughtsAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports Resources: Accessibility:https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm Luray Caverns:https://luraycaverns.com/ Limberlost trail:https://www.nps.gov/places/000/limberlost-track-trail-kids-activity.htm https://www.kidsinparks.com/shenandoah-national-park-limberlost-trail

    Episode 10: Shenandoah National Park: Easy Adventure for Neurodivergent Families-Travel in 3-2-1

  5. Jul 13

    State Park Series #4: State Park Summer Mini-Series-Deception Pass State Park: Wildlife Scavenger Hunts, Tidepools, and Breathtaking Views in the Pacific Northwest

    “Some of the most memorable family adventures are the ones that feel exciting and full of discovery without requiring a complicated plan or an exhausting schedule.” In this episode, I continue our summer state park miniseries with a visit to Deception Pass State Park in Washington State. I share why this beautiful destination stood out to our family and how it offers the perfect mix of movement, wildlife, outdoor exploration, and flexibility for families–especially those raising children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and other behavioral differences. From scenic beaches and tide pools to wildlife spotting and forest trails, this park creates opportunities for adventure without the pressure of a packed itinerary. You’ll also hear practical insights on choosing activities that match your child’s comfort level, why movement and nature can be so supportive for regulation, and how simple outdoor experiences often become the most meaningful travel memories. Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:10 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:00:47 – Introduction to Deception Pass State Park 00:01:56 – Crossing the famous bridge 00:03:14 – When is it best to visit? 00:04:02 – Movement and exploration benefits 00:05:06 – Bridge crossing considerations 00:06:31 – Flexible ways to explore 00:07:18 – The benefits of tide pooling 00:08:53 – Who this park is best for 00:09:54 – Simple adventures matterAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupportsResources: State Park website: https://deceptionpassfoundation.org/plan-your-visit/ Kayak tours: https://www.anacorteskayaktours.com/kayaking-day-trips-srengine7/family-trips/ Whale watching: https://deceptionpasstours.com/ State park approved vendors: https://deceptionpassfoundation.org/vendors/

    State Park Series #4: State Park Summer Mini-Series-Deception Pass State Park: Wildlife Scavenger Hunts, Tidepools, and Breathtaking Views in the Pacific Northwest

  6. Jul 6

    Episode 9: Traveling with Kids Who Have Eating Challenges with Lindsey Woller

    Have you ever spent months planning a family vacation only to have the biggest challenge turn out to be finding something your child will eat? For many families raising children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, ARFID, or other feeding challenges, food can become one of the most stressful parts of travel. In this episode, I sit down with pediatric dietitian Lindsey Woller for our first expert interview on the podcast. We talk about practical strategies for preparing for travel, navigating airports and road trips, handling restaurant meals, and helping children feel more comfortable with food in new environments. Lindsey shares realistic advice that helps families reduce stress while building confidence and flexibility around eating during travel.  Topics Covered: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:43 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:01:24 – Introducing our guest, Lindsey Woller, RD 00:06:19 – Packing safe foods and snacks 00:07:57 – Previewing restaurants before your trip 00:10:32 – Travel day food strategies 00:12:47 – Preventing hangry meltdowns 00:14:25 – What to do once you arrive 00:20:45 – Letting go of perfection 00:23:35 – Connect with Lindsey Woller 00:25:35 – Closing thoughts and encouragementAbout Lindsey Woller: Lindsey Woller, RD, specializes in pediatric and family nutrition, diabetes management, enteral nutrition, sustainable weight management, and general wellness. She previously served as the pediatric dietitian at the Children's Hospital of Savannah and has additional experience in both neonatal and adult intensive care settings, giving her a broad and unique clinical perspective across the lifespan. Her passion for nutrition began while studying abroad in South Africa, where she worked in a community garden at a preschool and discovered a love for teaching children about healthy foods. Since then, she has also worked with international nutrition programs in South Africa, Ghana, and Nicaragua. These experiences strengthened her commitment to culturally inclusive nutrition and family-centered care. Lindsey also works with many families with children who have ADHD, autism and anxiety in her outpatient practice with No Diet Dietitian. Connect with Lindsey Woller, RD: Web: https://nodietdietitian.com/meet-lindsey-wollerAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familytravelthatsupports/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport

    Episode 9: Traveling with Kids Who Have Eating Challenges with Lindsey Woller

  7. Jun 29

    State park series #3: State Park Summer Mini-Series-Bahia Honda State Park: Calm and gorgeous beaches in the Florida Keys

    “Some of the best beach days happen when families stop trying to pack every moment with activity and finally have space to slow down, reset, and simply enjoy being together.” In this episode, I continue our summer state park miniseries with a visit to Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys. This conversation explores why slower, lower-pressure travel can feel especially supportive for families raising children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and other behavioral differences. I share how calmer environments, flexible plans, and simpler travel days helped us feel more connected and less overwhelmed. You’ll also hear practical insights on how water-based activities can be regulated for some children in the right environment. Topics Covered: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:10 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:01:15 – Introduction to Bahia Honda State Park 00:03:59 – Reason #2: Calm water and snorkelling experience 00:04:51 – Why water can feel regulating for some children 00:05:06 – Reason #3: Beautiful scenery without overplanning 00:05:46 – Who Bahia Honda is best suited for 00:06:07 – Letting go of packed itineraries and FOMO 00:06:40 – Closing ThoughtsAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports Resources: State Park website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/BahiaHonda Snorkeling information: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bahia-honda-state-park/snorkeling-bahia-honda

    State park series #3: State Park Summer Mini-Series-Bahia Honda State Park: Calm and gorgeous beaches in the Florida Keys

  8. Jun 22

    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 travelingAbout 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; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports  Linktree (click here to access our Family Travel Resource Library): https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupportResources: Beach accessibility:https://www.sandiego.org/article/san-diego-beach-wheelchairs San Diego Zoo:https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/ Cabrillo Monument:https://www.nps.gov/cabr/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm Crown City Inn: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

    Episode 8: San Diego, California: Sunshine, Sensory-Friendly Fun & Family Flexibility- Travel in 3-2-1
See All (19)

Trailer

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism & Anxiety is a podcast for families who love to travel and are raising children with big feelings, behavioral challenges, and neurodiverse needs. Hosted by Josette Bianchi—a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and travel lover—this show shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and supportive strategies for traveling with kids who don’t always fit the typical mold. Most episodes follow a simple 3-2-1 format: three places to explore, two places to eat, and one helpful travel tip for families in a featured location. Along the way, we’ll also dive into topics and/or interviews covering sensory-friendly travel planning, managing behavior challenges on the go, flying with neurodiverse kids, and choosing destinations that support flexibility and fun, and more. This podcast isn’t about curating perfect trips. It’s about adapting, adjusting, and finding what works for your family—because travel can be meaningful, empowering, and even joyful when we stop comparing and start connecting. Whether you're planning your first family getaway or you're already seasoned travelers, this podcast is here to help you feel seen, supported, and inspired to wander without limits.

Information

You Might Also Like