Issued by CHEO

CHEO, in collaboration with the Ottawa International Airport Authority, is proud to announce the release of a new video to support families of children with neurodevelopmental health needs as they navigate the airport experience. 

Travelling through an airport can be a challenging experience for anyone, but it can be especially overwhelming for kids who are neurodiverse. Recognizing the unique needs of these travellers, CHEO and the Ottawa International Airport Authority have created a social story video to provide a visual guide to the airport experience.  

This comprehensive visual guide— one of the first resources of its kind for Canadian children and youth — familiarizes them with the sights, sounds, and procedures of the airport. It is a step-by-step walkthrough of the airport experience, including check-in, security, customs and boarding procedures, helping them know what to expect from the moment they arrive until they board their flight. 

Through this close partnership and shared expertise, CHEO is focused on ensuring every child and youth can feel supported in our community.  

The collaboration between CHEO and the Ottawa International Airport Authority, with support from airport partners Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, Canada Border Services Agency, National Research Council, and MediaPlus, highlights a commitment to creating an environment that is friendly for all, and raising awareness. 

You can watch the full video on YouTube ahead of the busy March Break travel period. 

Quotes:

“By familiarizing children with the airport environment, we hope to make air travel a more comfortable experience for all families. Valuable collaborations like this one help us advocate for families and meet their health needs throughout the community,” said Vera Etches, president and CEO, CHEO. 

"A busy airport can be a really overwhelming place. The noise, lights and flow of travellers are a lot for autistic kids, like our daughter Jaden. This video does a great job of breaking down every step of the airport journey to help travellers feel safer and know what to expect, making the experience more positive and even enjoyable, for people with autism and their families,” said Joanne Bryk. 

"We are thrilled to partner with CHEO to help families navigate our airport more easily and comfortably. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility, ensuring a positive passenger experience, and providing a welcoming space for all travellers," said Susan Margles, president and CEO of the Ottawa International Airport Authority.