Luke has limited verbal skills and, in common with many autistic children, a tendency to abscond. For us, it’s much easier to stay in Ireland.”For some families with autistic children, going on a break can feel harder than being at home. Since 2023, one of these has been transformed into a sensory room, which is kitted out with mood cubes, weighted blankets, vibrating pillows and low levels of lighting. Ciara Barry of the Ashling says: “Some autistic people are sensitive to light, others to noise, others to touch. “What is essential for an autistic family coming on holiday can actually be good for everybody.”*Some names have been changed.

Source: The Irish Times November 02, 2025 15:32 UTC