Margalit Francus, founder of the website, AutisticGlobetrotting.com (an expert source for traveling with autistic children), recently visited MSP to explore the Navigating Autism program. Director Shelly Lopez walked Francus through the experience, which provides a full practice run through the airport for children with autism and other disabilities. Francus detailed Navigating Autism on her site and praised its realistic approach.
“Some programs try to make it a ‘fun’ experience for children with autism and forget to include real-life situations like removing clothing items at TSA lines or sitting down and staying buckled up in the airplane,” she wrote. “I was impressed with how [MSP’s program] not only included all the details that other programs had missed or ignored, but adequately prepared kids with autism for a future flight experience.”
Navigating Autism was further recognized last week when it was nominated for the 2015 “Airport Charitable Impact,” award by Airport Revenue News. The award recognizes an airport that has made a significant and noteworthy positive impact through special programs and initiatives. Winners will be announced in March, 2015.
Experience Navigating Autism for yourself through Francus’ step-by-step article.
