ADVOCATE: Creating a World of Adventure for All – The Jones Family’s Journey with Autistic Kids Do Travel

Meet the heart behind Autistic Kids Do Travel, a dedicated mother from the Jones family who helps create a community for neurodivergent families to explore the world together. When her son was diagnosed with autism at just 18 months old, she faced uncertainty about what the future would hold. Instead of limiting possibilities, she embraced adventure and joined in building a platform that not only shares practical travel tips for families with autistic children but also creates a supportive community where neurodivergent families can connect, share stories, and find inspiration.

On Being a Savant

What Does Being a Savant Mean to You?

To me, being a savant is about recognizing the unique gifts that live inside of each of us, even when life gets messy. It’s also about knowing you don’t have to do it all alone. My strength as a mom, advocate, and woman is deeply rooted in the support system I’m blessed to have — my husband, parents and our incredible school family, that gave us a foundation to build on.

The Moment of Realization

The Moment You Knew You Were Unique—How Did It Shape You?

I knew I was different when motherhood asked me to show up in ways I never imagined. It wasn’t just about raising kids — it was about becoming an advocate, a student, and a voice. Realizing that I could walk this path and hold space for both of my children! It made me stronger and more sure of my purpose.

Daily Rituals and Passion

What’s Your Daily Ritual for Tapping into Your Genius?

Every day starts with a quiet moment of gratitude — even if it’s in the shower, while making breakfast or during my hour long drive to work! I remind myself: You’re not doing this alone.

On Identity and Labels

In a World Obsessed with Labels, How Do You Define Yourself?

I define myself and my Ausome kiddo by our unique abilities and love — not by a diagnosis, not by a title. I’m a full-time mom, a partner, an advocate, and a fierce believer in early support making all the difference. I’m someone who holds space for both of my kids’ individual needs while never forgetting who I am too.

Misconceptions

What’s the Most Misunderstood Aspect of Your Identity or Life/Work?

People often think I’m “superhuman” for managing so much. What they don’t always see is the village it takes, the long days and the often thankless sacrifices made.

Creative Inspirations

Which Piece of Music, Art, or Literature Speaks to Your Soul—and Why?

“Rise Up” by Andra Day. It captures what it feels like to fight for your child, your family, and yourself — even when you’re tired. Every school meeting, every therapy session, every tear wiped in the dark — that’s all part of my personal rising.

Legacy and Impact

What’s Your Legacy in the Making?

I hope my legacy is one of relentless love and advocacy — that I made the world a little kinder, more accessible, and more hopeful for kids like mine. That I taught both of my children that no dream is too big, no diagnosis too limiting, and that support systems are bridges, not crutches. Every child is capable of greatness and it’s been my life’s mission to spread that message!

Bold Moves

What’s the Most Radical Thing You’ve Ever Done in the Name of Passion?

Saying “yes” to travel, adventure, and new experiences for our family — when the world said “stay home and play it safe.” Trusting that with planning, patience, and the right support services, we could live boldly. It wasn’t reckless — it was revolutionary and our family has made the most magical memories because of it.

Finding Balance

How Do You Balance the Chaos and the Calm in Your Life?

I balance it by remembering that both my children need different things from me — and that’s okay. Some days, it means setting down the to-do list to sit on the floor and play. Other days, it means fiercely protecting my own calm so I can keep showing up. And through it all, I lean on my husband, my friends, and family.

Role Models and Wisdom

Who’s Your Ultimate Role Model—And What Have They Taught You?

It’s definitely my husband. He’s taught me what it truly means to have an unwavering partnership — that a strong marriage is the backbone of a strong family.

Advice to Younger Self

If You Could Speak to Your Younger Self, What Advice Would You Give?

I’d tell her: Find your people early. Lean on them without guilt. Trust your instincts. And never let the fear of doing it wrong stop you from doing it with love. You’ll learn that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom.

The Power of Words

What’s Your Favorite Curse Word or Expletive, and Why?

“Shit.” Because life is messy sometimes! Shit happens sometimes and you just have to keep moving forward.

Anything Else You’d Like to Share?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the beauty of this journey is found in the in-between moments — the small victories, the quiet resilience, the messy grace. Being an autism mom, a full-time parent, and a fierce advocate has taught me that it’s okay to hold both joy and exhaustion at the same time. It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to celebrate the little wins like they’re major miracles — because they are. Our story isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about honoring every step of the journey with love, grit, and a whole lot of hope.

Connect with Autistic Kids Do Travel

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