Summer travel can feel like a lot to navigate. For many families like ours, vacations don’t exactly start with “Where should we go?” They start with: will the hotel work for my child? Is the amusement park or museum sensory-friendly? Will there be accessible bathrooms, safe foods, quiet spaces, or activities my child can actually enjoy? How will they survive that long drive?! The good news is that inclusive travel is becoming more thoughtful and accessible than ever.
This week, we’re sharing parent-tested tips, accessible destinations, and disability-friendly vacation ideas to help make summer travel feel a little more doable.
Road trips and airplane tips
The trip is planned, but getting there? Sometimes that can be the hardest part — especially when you’re juggling change in routines, sensory sensitivities, medication, and all the unknowns of travel days. These resources break down the real-life stuff so you can feel more prepared before the wheels even start moving.
- How to make travel and road trips easier for kids with disabilities
- The best tips for flying with a child with disabilities
- Flying with a service dog? Here’s what to know
Vacation spots and accessible activities
Not all destinations are equal, but more are embracing true accessibility for families like ours. Whether you’re planning a getaway across the US and need a list of the best vacation spots for kids with disabilities, or want to explore accessible activities in California (e.g. playgrounds and parks, movie theaters, museums, trails, gardens, beaches, or campgrounds), we’ve got you covered.
Amusement parks
Theme parks can be amazing — and quickly overwhelming. Our amusement park guides help you get ahead of the chaos, with tips on disability access passes, sensory strategies, medication planning, food considerations, bathroom logistics, and all the surprises that show up when you least expect them.
- Your guide to Visiting Disneyland with disabilities
- Walt Disney World disability accommodations and services for families
- Legoland California resort disability guide for families
- Universal Studios Hollywood disability guide for families
💌 Dear Undivided corner
Dear Undivided,
If I’m an IHSS provider for my child, can I claim IHSS hours while we’re on vacation? What if we travel out of California?
Sincerely,
Parent in need of some R&R
Dear parent,
If your whole family is going on vacation to another city or state (but not another country) and you will still be caring for your child where you travel, you should be able to claim those hours. For example, if your family is staying in a hotel and your child will still need their regular diaper changes or tube feeds, you are providing IHSS-authorized services as their provider. However, it is recommended that you contact your case manager or public authority in advance to confirm that you have permission to claim hours for the days that you are traveling. If your travel exceeds 30 days, you may not be able to claim hours. We hope this information helps!
With love,
The Undivided Team
Have something on your mind? Send us an email with your question. You might see it featured in an upcoming issue.
Undivided Updates
May Update to the California Budget: On May 14, 2026, Governor Newsom released updated changes to his proposed state budget from January. There’s some encouraging news in the mix, along with areas families will want to watch closely — especially around Regional Center services, the Self-Determination Program, and special education funding. There’s still time for families to understand what’s being discussed and speak up. Read our update on what’s changing→
Office hours: Special education and IEPs
If you have questions about your child’s accommodations, services, goals, or anything else in their IEP, join us for office hours on Wednesday, May 27, 12:00 p.m. PT with Non-Attorney Education Advocate Karen Ford Cull, who specializes in inclusion. During office hours, you can ask your question in our members-only Zoom session and get answers right away. If you’re not a member, sign up here to participate→
Undivided Conversations
Streaming on Facebook and YouTube:
- 11 Tips for Traveling with a Service Dog → Saturday, May 23, 10:00 a.m. PT. Tune in again as Undivided Navigator Meg shares 11 essential tips for flying with a service dog. From training techniques to altering your dog’s feeding schedule, discover how to fly with your furry companion confidently.
- Your Child Stims for a Reason — Here’s What It Means → Sunday, May 24, 10:00 a.m. PT. Join our experts as they break down what stimming actually is and why it matters for your child — from sensory systems to behavior plans to what to do when stimming feels overwhelming at home.
Do you have a child with complex medical needs? Get tips from Undivided Navigator Heather on smoother travel for the whole family! Watch on our YouTube channel→
This week in our private group for parents: special needs trusts, news from Disability Voices United, SDP vendors, COPAA conference, and more. Join the discussion on Facebook→
Set your child up for meaningful relationships and new friendships this summer with these tips from Katherine Gyolai, founder of Find Love Safely. Check it out on our Instagram→
Want to spotlight a disability-friendly travel destination that your family loves? Share with us on LinkedIn→
