Family Travel That Supports

Josette Bianchi
  • 5.0 (22)
  • Kids & Family
  • Updated Biweekly

Family Travel That Supports is a podcast for real families who love to travel—and want practical advice for making travel work for their unique needs. Hosted by Josette Bianchi, MD, a dual board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and lifelong travel lover, the podcast tackles the real challenges of traveling with kids. Through practical advice, real-life experiences, destination ideas, and expert insights, Dr. Bianchi helps families figure out what will actually work for them. She covers everything from choosing the right destination and navigating flights and travel logistics to balancing different ages, interests, budgets, and needs. She also explores neurodivergent and accessible travel, travel safety, sensory-friendly experiences, and all the unexpected moments that come with family travel. Many episodes follow a simple 3-2-1 format: three places to explore, two places to eat, and one helpful travel tip for a featured destination. Other episodes dive deeper into the questions parents are actually asking, often with insights from experts in pediatrics, child development, education, behavior, and travel. This isn't about luxury vacations, exotic destinations, or perfect family trips. It's about figuring out how to travel well—with the kids, budget, limitations, and complications you actually have. Because family travel doesn't come in one size fits all. Real families. Real travel. Real solutions.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 14: Venice, Florida-Sharks' teeth, beaches, and fun: Travel in 3-2-1

    Planning a Florida beach trip with kids doesn’t have to mean spending the whole day sitting on the sand. What if your family wants beautiful beaches, but also wants to explore, move, discover, and try something different? In this episode, I take you to one of my family’s favorite beach destinations, Venice, Florida, and share three experiences that make this Gulf Coast town more than just a beach getaway. We talk about hunting for fossilized shark teeth, kayaking through the mangroves, and joining a local beach drum circle. I also share two casual family-friendly places to eat, plus what to consider when visiting a popular spot like Sharky’s on the Pier, especially if your kids struggle with crowds or long waits. And if your family gets hooked on shark tooth hunting, I share how scuba diving can become a future adventure for older, properly trained kids. Whether your family loves nature, movement, music, exploration, or simply wants more variety from a beach vacation, this episode offers practical ideas for making Venice, Florida work for your family. Topics Covered: 00:00 – Introduction 00:21 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports 01:42 – What makes Venice, Florida a great family destination 02:37 – #1: Hunting for shark teeth 04:49 – Turning beach time into a fun mission 06:16 – #2: Kayaking through the mangroves 07:21 – #3: Joining a local beach drum circle 09:48 – Eat #1: Tony’s Beef 10:16 – Eat #2: Gold Rush Barbecue 10:34 – Sharky’s on the Pier 11:44 – Tip #1: Taking shark tooth hunting underwater 12:08 – Exploring shark tooth scuba diving 13:30 – The Venice 321 recap 14:18 – Making meaningful family travel your ownMentioned Links: Aristakat Scuba Diving Charter https://www.sarasotacountyparks.comAbout Your Host: Josette Bianchi, MD, 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, 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: https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport

    Episode 14: Venice, Florida-Sharks' teeth, beaches, and fun: Travel in 3-2-1

  2. Sep 7

    Bonus Episode: Winter Fun with Kids: Family Activities for ADHD, Autism & Anxiety

    Winter travel can bring some of the best family memories, but for families with children who have ADHD, autism, or anxiety, the cold, crowds, waiting, equipment, and unfamiliar routines can also feel overwhelming. How can you make skiing easier? What if your child doesn’t enjoy the big resort experience? And what other winter activities might be a better fit? In this bonus episode, I share our family’s experiences with two winter activities: skiing and ice fishing. We talk about starting small with local ski parks, reducing sensory overload, renting equipment ahead of time, exploring adaptive programs, and finding instructors or guides who understand your child’s needs. I also share why ice fishing can be a great option for children who enjoy nature, animals, exploration, or having a specific mission, and how finding the right guide can make all the difference. Whether you're planning a winter getaway or simply looking for new activities to try with your family, this episode offers practical ideas for making winter adventures more comfortable, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. Topics Covered: 00:00 – Introduction 00:18 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 00:46 – Benefits of winter activities 01:31 – Starting small with skiing 03:19 – The benefits of smaller ski parks and camps 04:02 – Renting equipment ahead 05:47 – Discovering ice fishing as a family activity 06:06 – Finding the right guide for your child 07:11 – Planning winter activities around your child 08:01 – Prioritizing safety in winter activities 08:27 – Travel without limitsAbout 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: https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/winter/adaptive-skiing/ https://adaptiveadventures.org/programs/skiing-and-snowboarding/

    Bonus Episode: Winter Fun with Kids: Family Activities for ADHD, Autism & Anxiety

  3. Aug 31

    Episode 13: Air Travel Safety for Kids with Child Aviation Expert Lia Tuso: What Every Parent Should Know Before Boardin

    In this episode, I sit down with Child Aviation Expert Lia Tuso to break down the safety decisions parents need to understand before boarding. We discuss turbulence, lap-held infants, car seats, seating positions, checking versus bringing car seats onboard, and the CARES harness. Lia also shares helpful airport resources for families traveling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and sensory sensitivities, including sensory rooms, TSA Cares, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard. Whether you're preparing for your next family flight or simply want to feel more confident about flying with your kids, this episode offers practical guidance to help you travel safer and more prepared. Topics Covered: 00:00 – Introduction 00:35 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety 02:56 – How Lia became a child passenger safety expert 05:43 – Why car seat safety in cars differs from air travel 07:05 – How to practice before your flight 10:59 – The risks of lap-held infants 14:05 – Choosing and using car seats on planes 19:51 – Why you should avoid checking car seats 24:39 – What to do if your car seat is missing 26:52 – Is the CARES harness a good option? 29:06 – Resources for kids with sensory needs 33:03 – The one thing every parent should know about flying 35:32 – Making informed choices for safer family travelMentioned Links: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard – A discreet way for people with non-visible disabilities to indicate that they may need additional support, patience, or understanding while traveling. TSA Cares provides assistance and information for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special needs.About Our Guest: Lia Tuso is a Child Passenger Safety Technician and international child aviation safety expert who helps families navigate car seats, airline policies, and safer air travel with children. As a mom and frequent traveler, she combines professional expertise with practical, real-world guidance to help parents travel more safely and confidently. About Our Guest: Lia Tuso is a Child Passenger Safety Technician and international child aviation safety expert who helps families navigate car seats, airline policies, and safer air travel with children. As a mom and frequent traveler, she combines professional expertise with practical, real-world guidance to help parents travel more safely and confidently. Connect with Lia: Web: https://liatuso.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/lia_tuso/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lia_Tuso LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liatuso/Connect with Dr. Josette Bianchi: Email: familytravelsupport@gmail.com; josettemarie@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Instagram: @familytravelthatsupports  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/familytravelsupport

    Episode 13: Air Travel Safety for Kids with Child Aviation Expert Lia Tuso: What Every Parent Should Know Before Boardin

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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About

Family Travel That Supports is a podcast for real families who love to travel—and want practical advice for making travel work for their unique needs. Hosted by Josette Bianchi, MD, a dual board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and lifelong travel lover, the podcast tackles the real challenges of traveling with kids. Through practical advice, real-life experiences, destination ideas, and expert insights, Dr. Bianchi helps families figure out what will actually work for them. She covers everything from choosing the right destination and navigating flights and travel logistics to balancing different ages, interests, budgets, and needs. She also explores neurodivergent and accessible travel, travel safety, sensory-friendly experiences, and all the unexpected moments that come with family travel. Many episodes follow a simple 3-2-1 format: three places to explore, two places to eat, and one helpful travel tip for a featured destination. Other episodes dive deeper into the questions parents are actually asking, often with insights from experts in pediatrics, child development, education, behavior, and travel. This isn't about luxury vacations, exotic destinations, or perfect family trips. It's about figuring out how to travel well—with the kids, budget, limitations, and complications you actually have. Because family travel doesn't come in one size fits all. Real families. Real travel. Real solutions.

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