Less Stress, More Support: TSA Updates + Boundaries + Thrive Together

From new TSA supports for families flying in 2026, to navigating greetings and boundaries, to the courage it takes to ask for help—this issue is about one thing: creating a life that actually supports our kids and our families

Love Without Pressure: Boundaries That Nourish Connection

How do we nourish a relationship? For individuals impacted by autism, this can look very different from what society often expects.

Growing up in Mexican culture, greetings are warm and expressive—hugs and kisses on the cheek, sometimes even the familiar “air kiss.” At family gatherings, it was normal to greet everyone this way. I learned early on that this was simply part of the social fabric—how respect, connection, and belonging were shown. And I know it often comes from love—people want to be close, and they want our kids to feel included.

At the same time, I remember how challenging that could feel as a child. Certain smells, close proximity, or physical contact could be overwhelming, even when it was well-intended. Looking back, I see how much of this was about learning the social rules of the world around me—and how those expectations can feel especially intense for someone who experiences the world differently.

This leads me to an important question: How do we teach social rules while also honoring individual needs? I believe modeling is powerful. I also believe deeply in agency and boundaries. Teaching what is expected—while leaving room for choice and consent—is a delicate but meaningful balance.

I once heard an adorable five-year-old say to a relative, “You can look at me, but don’t touch.” Such a simple, wise expression of a boundary from a child who knew what felt safe for him.

As we guide our children—and those we love—through social expectations, it helps to remember that sensory differences play a role. Sometimes it truly is okay to skip a handshake, a hug, or a kiss. Other times, accommodations can help: a handshake followed by hand sanitizer, or simply checking in first.

Learning to notice body language, honoring comfort levels, and advocating with kindness allows relationships to grow in ways that feel safe, respectful, and nourishing for everyone.

Try a “Greeting Menu”

If greetings are a tricky spot in your family, try creating a simple greeting menu—and practice it before the next gathering:

• Wave

• Fist bump

• High five

• Handshake

• Hug (only if invited)

Then hit reply and tell me: Which greeting works best for your child (or for you) right now? I read every message, and I may share a few ideas (no names) in a future issue.

Closing Relationships don’t grow because we follow every social rule perfectly. They grow when we feel safe, seen, and respected—and sometimes the most loving thing we can teach is: your body belongs to you.

Flying in 2026: New TSA Family Lanes & Autism Travel Supports

As we navigate airports with our families, staying informed about the latest changes can make travel less stressful and more predictable—especially important for our autism community. Here's what you need to know about flying in 2026.

TSA's "Families on the Fly" Makes Security Easier

Great news for families! TSA has launched dedicated "Families on the Fly" lanes at select airports to recognize the unique challenges parents face when traveling with children 12 and under. These family-friendly lanes help reduce congestion and stress while maintaining top security standards.

Look for signage at TSA checkpoints directing you to the appropriate lane, where designated officers are ready to assist. Currently available at 13 airports with more locations coming soon (see link below).

Key family-friendly policies:

• TSA will never separate children from parents or guardians

• Strollers, baby carriers, and car seats are allowed (screened by X-ray)

• Modified procedures minimize pat-downs for children

• Children 17 and under travel free through TSA PreCheck® when with an eligible parent—no separate Known Traveler Number needed

TSA Cares is Here to Help

For families with members who have disabilities or medical conditions (including autism), TSA Cares offers dedicated officers to assist through security. Call (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight for personalized support with checkpoint navigation, handling belongings, and addressing specific sensory or communication needs.

You can also text 275-872 ("AskTSA") or message @AskTSA on social media for quick answers about checkpoint procedures.

What Else is Changing in 2026?

Beyond family lanes, several updates are rolling out across airports and airlines:

Technology advances: Biometric systems using facial recognition are expanding at major U.S., European, and Asian airports, potentially replacing physical documents at check-in, boarding, and customs. While this may speed up processes, it's worth noting for families who need predictability—practice runs through programs like Wings for Autism/Wings for All can help prepare for these changes.

Policy shifts: The U.S. Department of Transportation's 2024 rule on safe accommodations for passengers with disabilities (including autism) continues implementation through June 2026, with required airline staff training on assistance and developmental disabilities.

Southwest Airlines changes: Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest introduces assigned seating and ends free checked bags on most fares. Passengers requiring extra space ("customers of size") must now pre-purchase additional seats.

American Airlines miles are not earned on basic fares now.

Resources to Bookmark

TSA Families: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/families-fly

TSA Cares: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/disabilities-and-medical-conditions

U.S. DOT Passengers with Disabilities: https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/disability

Wings for Autism/Wings for All: Contact your local Arc chapter for airport rehearsal programs https://thearc.org/our-initiatives/travel

Change can be challenging, especially for our families who thrive on routine and predictability. But programs like "Families on the Fly" and TSA Cares show that advocacy works—airports and airlines are listening and adapting.

Take advantage of these resources. Call TSA Cares before you fly. Look for those family lanes. And remember: you have the right to ask for accommodations that respect your family's sensory needs and boundaries.

Have questions about airport accommodations or travel tips? Email me back—I'd love to hear what's working (or not working) for your family.

I Need Help’: A Quiet Act of Strength

Single parenting—it’s a topic that has been on my mind for the past four weeks. I’ve been thinking about families I know who have lost a parent recently, or families navigating divorce. A heavy topic… but one that is present in so many homes. Sometimes we see posts from a parent sharing how exhausting it is to care for their child 24/7 with no help.

Today I want to spotlight an amazing dad, who will remain nameless for privacy. I admire his journey after losing the love of his life. Many men have a hard time expressing themselves—especially when they are hurting—but this man has a way with words. He sees light amidst thunderstorms. His awareness of his own needs, and the needs of his children, is inspiring.

My heart was touched when he asked for “mom help.” He asked moms for help with lunches… and how to do his little girl’s hair. And I wish I could share the incredible outpouring that followed—moms cheering him on, giving advice, offering tips, showing up with kindness. What I love about this dad is that although his life is not easy, he keeps an incredible positive attitude. He spreads joy and love for God. He uplifts—he literally sweetens people’s lives.

As I watched his post turn into a space filled with love, tips, and answers, I found myself wondering: how many of us actually put it out there when we need help? When we need support, advice, or even just someone to say, “I’ve been there.” It takes courage to admit, “I don’t know, and I need help.”

As you travel on your journey, I invite you to reach out. Even when you feel like you have nothing to give—reach out. Even when you’re at the end of your rope—reach out. And if someone extends a hand, let yourself take it. I have found that in my hardest experiences, I find healing and inner joy as I serve and help others.

And I’ve also found this: when I ask for help, there are people who truly have my back.

Questions to ponder

• Where in my life am I carrying too much alone right now?

• What is one area where I need support—and I’ve been afraid to ask?

• Who is one person I can reach out to this week (even with a small request)?

This week, try one brave thing:

1. Send one message to someone you trust and ask for one specific need (ex: “Can you share easy lunch ideas?” or “Can you show me a quick hairstyle?” or “Can you check in on me this week?”).

2. If you’re in a season where you can give, offer one small act of support to someone else—encouragement counts.

If you want, you can reply to this email with “I need help with _______.” If I can’t help directly, I’ll do my best to point you to resources or ideas.

Our kids are watching. When they see us ask for help—and also show up for others—they learn what resilience looks like. They learn what friendship looks like. They learn that life is about growing… but not growing alone.

Even if one parent is not present, strength can still surround a family. Sometimes it comes through faith, sometimes through friends, sometimes through neighbors, sometimes through other parents who simply understand. That’s what thriving together means: letting your support system hold you, and letting yourself hold others when you can.

We’d love your feedback! Let Us Know What You Think! Email [email protected]