Journeys of joy

Insights from four moms on travelling with children with hearing loss

- Jennifer Allen

Perhaps the most important part of any journey is finding your way. Just like maps are made by those who have gone before (or all knowing satellites - wouldn't that be nice in special needs parenting?), we learn both where and how to go through the experiences of pioneers in disability travel. Since travelling with a child with hearing loss is outside of my wheelhouse of expertise, I looked for those wayfinders to lead the way. I found four moms who see the value in sharing new experiences with their kids, regardless of obstacles.

Meet the moms

MARISSA, mom to two-year-old Kieran, is the writer behind Postcards to Seattle, where she shares Pacific Northwest travel tips and itineraries. She also shares her travels and more tips for travelling with kids on Instagram. Her content doesn't focus on travel with hearing loss, but it's a part of everything she does.

KADY is mom to two girls and the writer behind Tavadventures, inspiring all young globe-trotters to never stop searching for the next adventure.

Kady's youngest, Ava, is a brain cancer warrior and travels with hearing loss and medical needs.

KAYLA is mom to four-year-old Maci. Maci has many medical complexities, including hearing loss. Maci wears hearing aids and explores the world with her mom, who refuses to throw in the towel in the name of convenience.

AMIE JO is mom to this issue's guest editor, Angela Lynn, and the change-maker behind Corner4Success, an inspirational Roku channel. She has years of parenting experience behind her and knows the ins and outs of travelling with a child with hearing loss.

What anxieties did you have to overcome to travel with your child with hearing loss?