Best wishes for the new year! I am Shinichi, who has been diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and epilepsy. As a writer today, I would like to share how to enjoy a trip with people with ASD.
Individuals with autism tend to be fascinated by specific hobbies. Japanese broadcaster NHK (Nippon Hoso Kyokai) featured that autistic boys were intrigued by expressways and railroads. Interestingly, a boy is fascinated by expressways, which coincides with my childhood curiosity.
He is skilled at guiding the most efficient route without using GPS in a car. In the future, an individual with this potential ability could take a trip on their own. Also, some children are very familiar with the names of stations and the most efficient routes. As a result, some Japanese parents acknowledge their outstanding skills. Children who know the route or station can enjoy planning family trips with their parents.
During my childhood, I had the opportunity to embark on several trips by myself. I travelled to Tokyo from Saitama (their neighbouring prefecture) when I was seven years old! My mother gave me several coins and explained how to get directions. It was easy to find directions in Tokyo when I was a child. I could get to Tokyo because I only had to change lines once.
Currently, I live in Sapporo, a city served by three subway lines. The situation is similar to Tokyo in the 1990s. The Sapporo Transportation Bureau offers stamping services at each station. Passengers can collect these stamps. In my view, that is a worthwhile experience for children and autistic people.
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