Episode 1: Finding Fun, Calm, and Brotherly Love in Philly: A 3-2-1 Plan

What this episode covers

Traveling with children with neurodiverse needs or anxiety often feels like planning a trip where the conditions may change at any minute, and learning to adapt becomes part of the adventure.There is excitement about exploring new places, but there may also be questions about crowds, noise, unfamiliar routines, and big emotions. Plans sometimes shift, and the day may look different from what was originally expected. For many families, travel becomes easier when the focus is on staying flexible and allowing space for breaks when they are needed. In this episode of Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, Dr. Josette Bianchi shares a simple way to plan a family trip using the show's 3-2-1 travel format. The journey includes places where kids can touch, explore, and learn, spaces where they can move around and stay active, and food stops with flexible options for families. There is also a bonus spot where kids can climb, swing, and release some energy when they need a break from the busy city. At the heart of it all is a gentle reminder. Travel does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes the best memories grow from small moments, a quiet break, a curious question, or a child discovering something new. Meet your family where they are and keep wandering without limits. Topics Covered: * 00:00:00 – Welcome to Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety * 00:01:56 – Destination spotlight: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania * 00:03:14 – The 3-2-1 Travel Plan * 00:03:33 – Place #1: Philadelphia Zoo * 00:05:00 – Place #2: Please Touch Museum * 00:06:35 – Place #3: The Franklin Institute * 00:07:29 – Sensory backpacks and return option * 00:08:09 – Family-friendly food options in Philadelphia * 00:09:50 – Bonus tip: We Rock the Spectrum * 00:10:57 – Episode wrap-up and final reminder About Your Host: Dr. Josette Bianchi is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of three, and a travel lover who believes families should feel confident exploring the world together. Through Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety, she shares practical tips, real-life experiences, and encouragement for families raising children with big feelings, sensory needs, or behavioral differences. Combining her medical background with her perspective as a parent, Dr. Bianchi helps families plan flexible, sensory-friendly trips. Each episode offers simple ideas, honest stories, and helpful tools to make travel more manageable and more meaningful for neurodiverse families. Connect with Dr. Jo: Email: [email protected]; [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josette-bianchi-40902943/ Podcast Show Description: Family Travel that Supports ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety is a podcast for families who love to travel and are raising children with big feelings, behavioral challenges, and neurodiverse needs. Join Dr. Josette Bianchi, a board-certified pediatrician and mom of three, as she shares practical tips and real-life experiences to help families plan more manageable trips using a simple 3-2-1 travel format.