Autism Meltdown On An Airplane

[@me-lf7us]

First, thank you for being the family, the channel, that protects your daughter's privacy and dignity by NOT filming the more challenging moments for views. You are an example of how autism education and awareness can be spread without exploitation of a child. In the end, although your travel day home for Sweet Braylee was distressful , it doesn't define your vacation and all of the wonderful experiences Braylee got to experience in her travels. Keep doing what you're doing David; every person that comes across your videos will have a greater understanding and be part of making this world a kinder place.

[@robylove9190]

It has to be horrible for Braylee to feel so panicked and not be able to escape. Anyone who has panic attacks understands how hard those times are. I'm glad she was so happy to be home.

[@TheWeeFamily]

Definitely. I can understand that her body goes into a sort of fight or flight and not being able to must make things so much more difficult. Proud of her for working through it

[@jasmin.iordanescu]

Captain B is incredibly resilient and controlled - all that squinting, as if the sun was in her eyes when hugging new people, interacting with new animals, taking in new vistas, new foods, music and all manner of stuff outside of her control - all that squinting and humming and singing is her working, self-regulating, slowing down the inner rollercoaster, and it's darn exhausting. I couldn't be away from my safezone at home for more than two days, let alone six, with flights, cruises and unknowns around every corner. What an absolute star she is. 🖖

[@TheWeeFamily]

I know it’s a lot and sometimes she falls apart. But she also has our support and a lot of her very own self regulating skills that she uses to help herself through the hard things! And in return, she also gets to experience some great things. She is generally a really good traveler and has gotten a lot better with change and transitions. ❤️ could not be more proud of her. She’s a resilient and amazing person

[@jasmin.iordanescu]

@@TheWeeFamily You guys support her brilliantly - showing her a whole range of new experiences that she can safely take or leave, knowing you are there - you're building her confidence day by day. I watched some old vlogs and you can see her interests and interactions are now more outwards to her surroundings. Make it so Captain B 🖖🏻

[@cricketsong1967]

I'm autistic, and was in the middle of severe burnout/high anxiety when I flew across the country several years ago. My sensitivities were really high. I took everything one step at a time. I considered canceling the trip- but I didn't, and because I didn't, I saw the Pacific Ocean for the first time ever and stood in the water, laughing and crying with joy. Sometimes canceling or postponing is the right choice, sometimes getting through the harder parts is worth it.

[@TheWeeFamily]

I’m glad that you got to have such a memorable experience! We definitely make our choices for trips and experiences knowing what things are just a hard pass/too much for Braylee. You know yourself to know your limits. But taking a trip like that is so impressive and I’m glad you got to do that ❤️❤️

[@cricketsong1967]

The Autism on the Seas staff seems amazing! That kind of support is invaluable for all of you!

[@TheWeeFamily]

They are wonderful!

[@Blue_Wolf_loves_lofi]

Thank you for being real.... Getting on a plane with my autistic 3.5 year old is all kinds of intimidating, I won't lie. I understand how exhausting a meltdown can be, not just for them, but for us, too. I can't imagine it happening in the confines of a plane... you deserve some kind of dad award, as far as I'm concerned. Just thank you so much for always being authentic, for always loving that little girl no matter how exhausted you might be. You guys are the world to her and such wonderful parents! Thanks for helping me feel like I am not alone in this.

[@TheWeeFamily]

You are definitely not alone and more people share the same fears, pride, experience and many things in between! ❤️

[@mothermarie6057]

Awwww!!! The whole kitten caboodle! And Norton was like hey guys, it’s been getting colder while you were gone 🥰

[@caylasimpson6914]

That’s great that they were understanding and kind people and they understood that she was having a hard time and didn’t yell or scream at you.

[@TheWeeFamily]

I tried to tell them thank you rather than apologize because it isn’t Braylee’s fault or in her control but that we do appreciate the patience, kindness and understanding

[@Jadyn_Sage]

As an autistic adult, I can imagine Braylee's fear, panic and sheer distress going through a meltdown in such a confined space, especially during landing, when she can't even get up & walk or move seats. I was so happy to see her all smiles & giggles when you got to the house

[@TheWeeFamily]

also likely not fully understanding why she can’t get up and move around because it was landing would be hard. Because we haven’t explained “rules” of the plane and since she’s like captain safety about staying buckled I guess we didn’t foresee that being a problem. But we got through it. It’s also hard for such a natural busy body and movement loving kid to stay still so long too I’m sure. She was just exhausted from a long travel day like we all were I’m sure and ready to be home.

[@murielerickson792]

Sorry to hear about B’s meltdown. Glad it won’t stop you for taking another trip. 🥰

[@annelewis9109]

Braylee's meltdown on plane was not her fault no where to go. Glad you are still going on holiday with Braylee. Love to you all. From Ireland.

[@andriabrickman3938]

We had a meltdown in a huge long customs line at the airport coming home. It was so hard and I totally understand the feeling of isolation you talked about. You have to keep so calm and all your focus on your kiddo, but you know people are watching and you feel so judged. For our kiddo the last day of a trip is difficult as he is usually tired by then and has several days of overwhelming experiences. We also try to not let that stop us from giving our kiddo as many world experiences as we can. There is a lot of planning and we choose activities carefully and we usually know there will be some bumps in the road along the way but it’s so important for him to have those experiences.

[@TheWeeFamily]

Yes! The good far outweighs the bad and it makes it worth it to still have the trips ❤️

[@laramaaike3050]

Awww sweet Braylee. Most of the times I get a panick attack in the middle of the flight, bc I'm done, I want away and don't have control. This year I went with my mom and she comforts me. After landing I was ;'never again'. And now I think, maybe in 2 years I want to go, alone. I will use the autism on the airport, so that part will be smooth. And yeah, maybe I will get anxious, but I want to live my life.

[@TheWeeFamily]

I hope that you do love your life. Anxiety can be so debilitating but some things are so worthwhile. I (Stacey) have anxiety myself and it has kept me from things and I can understand that part of things. Flying is also a hard thing for a lot of people in general so you’re not alone!

[@laramaaike3050]

@@TheWeeFamily Awww thank you. Yeah, most of the time I do love my life. It is hard. But I will get there. And I understand to do not things bc of the anxiety. Some thing I will likely never do. Big hug for you

[@jacquicoder7160]

I certainly hope that no one recorded poor Braylee's meltdown. It is too easy for people who don't know you to misjudge the situation and you really can't take the time to explain it while you are trying to help your daughter. Even if you were able to, trying to explain an autistic meltdown to someone who doesn't understand autism could be fruitless. I'm so glad that the passenger next to you was understanding. It must have been so difficult for her, needing to escape a situation and not being able to do so. It's good that you took the time to express your thoughts for the sake of those who might not want to travel with a child with autism. You are a great dad and a fantastic representative of a family living with autism.

[@175muffin]

It's sad that you have to worry what others think that should not be. Poor Braylee it's so hard for her x

[@thatdailymama]

This is some tough stuff and all of us autism parents live in fear of the plane meltdown but it happens and we need to be able to accept that so we can still go into the world and enjoy life with our kids. Our kids should be able to see and do all the things just like everyone else but I absolutely admit I am scared of flying with Leah. We are probably going to do it tho! Life is short ❤

[@TheWeeFamily]

Yesssss to all of this!!

[@torontokat54]

You had an amazing vacation and a meltdown is just a matter of what happens but you have the very best attitude about it all. You will all survive and you have an amazing daughter because you are amazing parents.

[@lealofifuataga4353]

This is exactly what I needed to watch! I realise it has been 2 years since you posted but I know it will continue to bring encouragement to many! We used to travel a lot and I've missed it so much and now that our other children want to travel, we are really trying hard to prepare our autistic non-verbal son to make him as comfortable as possible. Thank you that you keep it real - we are trying to face our fears of meltdowns - but more so for how it impacts others around us ... but we will get there ... would love to know if you've travelled much since this trip and have your found other strategies to help prepare your daughter and yourselves. Blessings from New Zealand :)

[@shotzfir3d873]

i like when the rug says home sweet home

[@Tigirlyly]

Poor Braylee. Plus don't beat yourself up about the few moments that seemed like an eternity. I believe you need to continue exposure to new activities.

[@joanmory2789]

Thank you so much for sharing this. My 8 years olda daughter has autism and will be flying for the first time. I felt like crying listening to you talk about how your daughter was tantruming so bad during the flight. I am so afraid to visit our family thats like 5hrs flight but at the same time i dont want this to stop us from having family time. Thank you for encouraging us to keep traveling and kids in the spectrum will have good days and bad days but whats more important is family time together. 😊

[@sardadassmahadeo1113]

Your videos are very motivating, I have a almost 5 year old autistic daughter and I'm so nervous to air travel with her but u guys give me encouragement 😊

[@TheWeeFamily]

That means so much!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@kimarsenault9918]

Sorry to hear she had a hard time on the airplane happy Wednesday love from Canada 🥰🥰🤗🤗❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🇨🇦

[@TheSov]

Accidentally replied to a different video but man to add my comment to this one: 7 minutes ago Hello. Recently found your channel/ videos. I appreciate the candid commentary and sharing you do. Our daughter seems to be quite similar in behavior and verbal communication levels as your daughter (and also diagnosed). and when she was going on 4, had a massive meltdown on a transatlantic flight that was longer than estimated. She actually laid down in the back of the plane screaming, kicking, biting, etc. I think it lasted 45 minutes but maybe it was less- time seems to stand still during those moments. Like your daughter, it wasn’t her fault. She hit a wall and the time change didn’t help. We haven’t flown since but mostly due to Covid. We decided to take the plunge again and will be flying to Europe this July and we certainly have concerns. I really appreciated your comments about how the meltdown is only really a small portion of the trip / experience. Doesn’t ruin the trip though for a time, that memory of the plane meltdown lasted with my wife. Not our daughter, anyway, I am happy to see others like yourself traveling and sharing as it makes me more confident and comfortable to do so as well. We have an older daughter who, along with her autistic sister, deserves to experience what the world has to offer so off we go!

[@juliae.4618]

Thank you for sharing the Story. It was so Important for me to hear. Because a friend of mine went on vaccation by plane and right before Entering the airplane the Boy got a meltdown and Started hitting his father. The Pilot didn't alloe him to enter the plane and they had to go Back. I know how hard it is for the autistic Boy and for the father....but it Always helps to hear that it is Not the guilt of anyone...it can happen.....but Sometimes it is a hard struggle with guilt. Thank you for sharing!!!!

[@shanadang364]

Hello awesome Weefam! I’m so glad you had an amazing trip. This really touched me. Also, I’m not autistic but I could just imagine how challenging that was for her. I really admire you and Stacey as parents. You guys are so strong and very good role-models. You guys always make my day. You show me that life isn't all negative. I struggle with bipolar and ADHD and a lot of days for me can look negative but you guys change that perspective for me. As you say "bad moments don't equal bad days". That really stuck out to me. So thank you so much for giving me this new perspective and for being such a great inspiration. glad everything is okay now. See you guys in your next video.

[@pamgraham4689]

David..I just can not imagine how that is for Braylee, listening to you I want to grab and hug her Tight. At the same time My heart warms for you because honestly it sounds as when every meltdown/tantrum or whatever the case you are the one directing or trying to console Braylee. Is it that you have decided to handle the task because possibly Braylee is too strong for anyone else??(Even though you have said numerous times that Braylee has strength with meltdowns). I'm sure Stacey is silently crying for her Baby Girl and her Mama heart is hurting. You are also Very good at being self explanatory when expressing emotions at how things come out.. We all know Braylee means no harm to anyone at anytime and watching her wakeup the last day she just wasn't her joyful/smiley self and looked extremely tired, and the plane ride could not be helped.. Georgia Loves you All ❤️🤍❤️🤍❤️🤍

[@tyreesetjjoyner1995]

🙏🏾💙🙏🏾💙🙏🏾💙🙏🏾💙🙏🏾much prayers Braylee. I hope she’s okay. I hated when she’s panicking. I’m glad you’re taking good care of braylee.🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂

[@jp911]

So happy that Braylee got to go on a cruise and have a wonderful time and experience. And for they way home even tho it was tough she got through it. I feel most people are understanding so don't let that be a concern. Mom and dad you are doing a wonderful job! Keep up the good work, guide Braylee the best you can and remember that bad experience was only a fraction of the time. There's a chance that will never happen again on a plane ride. Blessings, you guys got this!

[@TheWeeFamily]

The trip was our best yet and so worthwhile. It honestly was such a minor part of the entire trip that I hope for her it was as worth it as it was for us

[@b.haveman3024]

Sorry to hear that Braylee had a tough time. I am glad she had a great time also. Respect for all the things you do.💪💪 Don't think about what other people would say and do. You are giving Braylee all you have. Love from The Netherlands. 💖😚

[@Jazziegrylbk]

I'm glad u guys & Braylee made it home safely. She did so well during this week. I loved taking this journey with you guys. DAD , U AND MOM ARE EXTRODIONARY PARRNTS. YOU THRIVE THRU ALL CIRCUMSTANCES AND PROVIDE YOUR BABY A LIFE WELL LIVED AND TRAVELED. KEEP UP THE GOOD JOB. 🥰

[@TheWeeFamily]

❤️❤️❤️

[@singleparentfire2363]

Thanks for sharing, I’m terrified of flying with my autistic daughter because of fear of meltdown so we haven’t traveled at all. But your video is encouraging me 😁

[@TheWeeFamily]

I am so glad to hear that! I hope that you travel and have an amazing time ❤️

[@kavitadeva]

Hi David. Thank you so much for sharing that meltdown and the components of it etc. I have some questions because I am literally ignorant about how I would go about dealing with a meltdown. Plus I see autistic children and then I see their parents and I see parents doing different things in similar situations. Is there any way that you can mitigate what's going on when she's in the middle of a meltdown? In other words can you tell her like Braylee everything's okay take a deep breath come on take a deep breath, and can you try to get through to her to make inroads into the meltdown? I don't know I'm sincerely asking I don't know. I guess that's it I just want to know is there things that can be done to lessen her frustration instead of just letting her ride it out on her own can you step in and do something? I sure would love to know what you think about that and how you guys approach it. Thanks again really appreciate you guys.

[@rayray91764]

I totally understand your situation. We flew for the first time on Southwest. We got to go first since we have an autistic child. We go in, I think let's sit first row so we get out quickly. But as you know, no seats in front of you, you can't store anything in front of you. Also, my son likes to put his feet on his bag so they're not dangling. Can't keep one on the floor. Everything was in the overhead bin. We start our descension of the flight. My son's tablet dies. Shoot, I can't get up to get fidget toys to keep him busy. I let him see my phone. keeps him busy for 2 mins. He starts to get loud..then louder..then starts screaming. Nothing I did would calm him down. 10 mins of this. Everyone on the plane goes quiet. It was the longest 10 mins of my life. Once we land and can take off our seatbelts, I unbuckle him and give him squeezes and console him. My poor husband stressed out as well, goes to get our suitcase a few seats behind us. A lady is standing in his way, and my husband says excuse me could I get my bag real quick. She stands there firm and says no. My husband can't believe it! It took everything in him to not go off on her. Passengers thought he was going to hit her or something. My husband says, well I'm getting my bag. Puts his leg on the outside of hers and wedges himself between her and the seats and gets his suitcase. I can't believe some people! The other passengers were understanding and said don't worry about it, but this lady...wow. Now mind you we had to change flights and we were late for the next flight. We run across the airport and they're already starting to board people but they let us in. We go another hour on a flight. No problems. But wow so stressful, but at least I know what I need to do next time. We'll be taking a train trip to visit my family for Christmas, and flying back. I'm sure Braylee was just super tired from her vacation, but one meltdown shouldn't stop us from living and experiencing things and making memories with our children. Hugs from Oregon! 🤗❤

[@mothermarie6057]

I love so much that you guys aren’t letting this hard experience get in the way of your future plans! ☀️

[@NewfieWendy]

You guys are awesome parents. All children need trips with family.

[@TheWeeFamily]

We are making some pretty great memories I think!

[@jackiesalotti62]

You are all in for Your sweet girl. I learn so much from you. Definitely one of my favorite autism families. Thank you! So glad your cruise was so successful. 🥰

[@TheWeeFamily]

We try to be! I’m glad we are helpful in any way to other people

[@ericaaubie860]

To avoid meltdowns on a plane have the music ready to go all you have to do is press play. Have her head phones on right away ready to go. There is the option to give medication before the flight to keep her calm. I cannot stress enough prevent meltdowns before the plane ride with lots of things for her to do, and snacks.

[@kellyryan26]

Braylee enjoyed 99.9 percent of her vacation. So, in the Wee Family Spirit-ONWARD! I can’t imagine your worry though, at the thought of someone exploiting sweet B, when you’ve done everything to avoid that happening. Keep being ever awesome, all 3!!❤

[@TheWeeFamily]

❤️❤️❤️

[@sindyspeechley8165]

Thank you David for sharing this. We are planning a trip from Australia to Scotland and I am very stressed about it. My Mr 10 is excited but has never been on a plane. We will be doing a practice flight to Tasmania.

[@Bengali_Hindi17]

I found this vidio heard touching, just because you explain what's happening, and thank you to the passenger that you mentioned. I understand her wanting to escape was a handful. So sorry.

[@felizshaw192]

Thank you for sharing that so I'm not the only one

[@alexthesaintbernardlover5938]

Hope you had a great time

[@tayfarmer964]

Hi the wee family I subscribed to your KZbin channel BRAYLEE, David, Stacey

[@cuberwithacamera3343]

I've flown once, it was only an hour and 45 minutes. I wouldn't choose to fly again, but I'm glad I did it. Even though I was nervous about it, even though I'm afraid of heights I'm glad I have the experience.

[@Puppy_1]

BRAILEY! I’m so proud of you, you did the best you could you hang in there as long as you could. I know how you feel my friend. I have autism too. There’s times you just can’t hang anymore. But you did the best you could. I am so proud of you! Bradley, you’re a good kid don’t ever forget that OK you’re a great kid and I love you to pieces. Don’t forget that. OK Bradley, stay strong, my friend. I’m here for you. I meant, BRAILEY. Sorry my phone does not know how to say Braley. I had to spell that. But don’t give up my friend. You did everything you could and you hung in there as long as you could. OK it’s gonna be all good man it’s gonna be just fine. Really you did everything the best you can and I’m very proud of you. You did great don’t worry about it my friend you did the best you could.

[@BrendaJJ]

Welcome Home!

[@elizabethsmith9213]

You are a lovely family xxx

[@TheWeeFamily]

❤️

[@cookiec.8710]

I cannot stand the feeling of enclosure on a plane. I wish I could act like Braylee and just have a meltdown. If I HAVE to fly to make someone else happy, I'm going to be slightly medicated to help me relax.

[@joannacouncil3875]

Your amazing parents an Braylee had a wonderful time Shame on people that record melt downs I would have a hard time not saying anything to them I mean if it happened I'm glad y'all are home an I think Braylee is to

[@cole.is.c00ll]

I struggle with things like this

[@timothyhalloran5128]

OK that’s OK because she had a good time and she loves it

[@Blackbird47634]

I got dyspraxia and have panic attacks too

[@elenadelawder6913]

Now B has Norton to hug! 💕😃

[@catiehays3361]

In my opinion 1 melt down outta being away from home for a week with all the travel doesn't seem 2 bad 2 me.. So I say way 2 go B, you rock!!

[@TheWeeFamily]

It really was minimal on the grand scheme of everything. It was also an early morning and long travel day that wore on all of us adults, let alone how much more it must’ve been for her.

[@angelwings414q]

I'm shocked that happens I'm glad she was ok and that must have been tought thank the stars I only was born with miled Cevral palsy

[@aliciaallford5469]

Where did you get some of the stuff that you take with you for Braylee

[@nancyschrage2764]

❤❤❤

[@daniellepatton2665]

I love your cats ❤ I have.3 cats 👍

[@daniellepatton2665]

I like dogs too

[@karengaisford5182]

Vacations are always nice but ‘There’s no place like home’

[@TheWeeFamily]

Absolutely!

[@SezShares]

Hugs 🫂

[@PopFan25]

I didn't see teh meltdown. What part is it

[@sweetgirl-jp4hn]

168 likes👍👍👍 💔💔 sad story.. Get better every day.. Pray for you and your family.. 💜❤💙💜❤💙 family never give up..

[@katiekawaii]

9:05 What kind of person films someone's child having a meltdown? And then puts it online?! Disgusting.

[@wendystephan35]

Of course you will do it again. If she had let's say...epilepsy. You take her on many trips and once she has full blown grand mal seizure on the plane that lasts for 15 minutes. Would you say we're never going on a trip again? Course not! And if anyone ever dared to put Braylee on the internet we would make not only that person's life miserable but also the channel that supported it! We got ya

[@TheWeeFamily]

Thanks for always being so supportive Wendy 🥰

[@Valturnaqueen]

You went on a cruise during hurricane season. Best month is March. Never ever cruise from September-Dec 😂😂

[@TheWeeFamily]

Both times we cruised have been during hurricane season 😬 we don’t like hot weather so we try to go when it’s cooler there and cold here 😆

[@caitlin9150]

I mean It wouldn't be fair to never take her on vacation. It's a moment, I mean I wonder if you went to a farther place how she would do for air travel.

[@TheWeeFamily]

We have tried to plan our air travel at about the same time span that we have experience with 3-4hours. But not sure how she would do with longer. We generally try to fly during her sleeping hours to make it somewhat easier but it doesn’t always work out well for that to happen.

[@caitlin9150]

Hmm UK be epic.

[@MishaSkripach]

Why ear plugs? Why a gadget given all the time? Very suspicious parenting. Did you show those family videos to your doctors? So much evidence of a very peculiar parenting style? Is your child taught simple obedience? To do as told? Our both cats do as told, it is possible to teach a non-speaking human to obey!

[@TheWeeFamily]

The earplugs are because she is sensitive to loud sound due to sensory processing disorder. She is also diagnosed with autism along with other disabilities. The ‘gadgets’ help her with travel and day to day life. In this video you see an iPad which has multiple purposes along with communication. The clay and sand in the video are both sensory items (things that are recommended by doctors especially for travel) Yes, doctors have seen our videos. Disabilities have nothing to do with parenting style. Please always remember that your normal is going to be different from someone else’s normal. What works for one person may not work for next. I really hope this reply to your comment helps with your questions. Lastly, please don’t judge parenting, especially off of a 15 minute video out of a 24 hour day.

[@MishaSkripach]

@@TheWeeFamily Gadgets ensure that she will not have any chance of normal development. Regarding sensitivity to sounds, all puppies have greater sensitivity than human toddlers, so dog trainers developed advice for owners how to desensitise their puppy to sounds, rather than reinforce the fear. Same techniques are used by competent parents with their children. Sensitivity to sounds needs music lessons, not earplugs! If she had a potential to have perfect pitch, you ensure that this gift is destroyed. If abnormal behaviour has nothing to do with parenting style, why don't parents just put the baby straight from the hospital and into a wardrobe, take out 5 times a day to feed and change, and 16 years later take out a ready, mentally healthy balanced young person? Play a guess game, would such person be diagnosed with autism? Of course he will. Would would I not judge awful parenting? It is screaming awful It is incompetent, inefficient, unfortunate anti-parenting! Not only I judge such parents but everyone around does! It takes lots of skill to raise a mentally healthy person, any significant deviation in parenting techniques results in abnormal behaviour = diagnosis.

[@TheWeeFamily]

This is pure ignorance. Again making assumptions off of a 15 minute video. The headphones are not used 24/7, just when she needs them as loud sudden noises and noisy places can be physically painful. Of course she listens to music. She loves music and we are always singing along with her. You are also paralleling abnormal behavior and disability along with discrediting countless professionals with your statements. I hope you find some peace. Judging parenting like that creates so much negativity and seems exhausting. No, everyone around does not judge parenting, that is incorrect statement. Have a good day.

[@MishaSkripach]

@@TheWeeFamily How can you know how many of your videos I watched? She never needs earplugs or earphones, she needs to LEARN to get accustomed to sudden loud sounds, the same way as pet cats and pet puppies to get accustomed. You are doing the opposite of what her needs dictate. If she loves music, she needs learning musical instruments, so she can express herself in music. It is not late yet. Autism is a behaviourally defined disorder. Nothing except odd behaviour can bring this diagnosis. If the behaviour is very severe, disability follows. Nobody in science states that children will have normal behaviour despite bad parenting. When your child is evaluate, your behaviour with your child is not evaluated, 24/7 CCTV was NOT installed in your home to detect abnormal parenting style. So, when specialist diagnose a child besed on this child's behaviour, they never take into account any parental errors. I see them even on your videos, lots of them, severe parenting mistakes. You feel free to close off this truth and not consider to change.