Traveling with a neurodivergent child is never just about the destination — it’s about every single step along the way. Recently, Hirah and I took a flight together, and I want to share what it was like from our eyes and hearts.
That morning, I made sure we had our comfort kit ready: headphones, her favorite snacks, her blanket, and a small toy she loves to hold. For us, having these familiar things is like carrying a piece of home wherever we go.
Walking into the airport, the world suddenly became bigger — bright lights, loud announcements, people rushing in every direction. I felt her little hand tighten around mine, and I knew she was feeling the change. I bent down and whispered, “We’re okay. I’m right here.”
We found our gate and had some time to watch the airplanes outside the big windows. I could see her curiosity slowly pushing past the nervousness. “That’s going to be our plane?” she asked. I nodded, and we both smiled.
Boarding was a mix of excitement and pressure — a lot of people moving in one direction, small spaces, and new smells. Once we found our seats, she wrapped herself in her blanket, put on her headphones, and looked more at ease.
Then came takeoff. The roar of the engines, the sudden speed — her eyes widened, and she grabbed my hand tightly. As the plane lifted, we looked out the window together, watching the city shrink and the clouds grow closer. “We’re so high!” she whispered, and I felt my heart swell.
The flight itself was peaceful. We shared snacks, watched a movie, and even laughed when the plane bounced a little in the air. I told her it was just the wind giving us a small push. She seemed reassured, and for the first time, I saw her genuinely relax mid-flight.
When we landed, I realized that we had done something big together. It wasn’t just about traveling — it was about building trust, making memories, and proving to both of us that we could handle new challenges side by side.
Flying with Hirah reminded me that with preparation, patience, and love, even the most overwhelming experiences can turn into treasured moments. We didn’t just get from one place to another. We grew, together, up there in the clouds.
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