For many children, travel and exploration are filled with excitement, curiosity, and moments of wonder. However, for Alex, an Autistic child, these experiences hold the same joy, though they may be expressed in his unique way. Through his eyes, we see that travel does not have to mean far-off destinations or grand adventures. Instead, it is about discovering new sights, sounds, and sensations, whether on a school bus or high above the clouds in an airplane.
Alex’s day-to-day life includes several forms of travel, each offering its own opportunities for exploration. Riding the bus to school, for example, might seem routine to others, but for him, it is a moment to show independence and courage. The bus is more than transportation; it is a step toward doing things on his own, a way to connect his home life with the world outside. The excitement he shows when the bus arrives reflects both anticipation and pride in mastering this part of his day.
School itself is another kind of exploration. It’s where Alex learns new things, numbers, ABCs, and how to interact with his classmates. Even though his communication may be limited, his alertness and willingness to try are signs of his engagement with the world around him. These are travels of the mind, as valuable as physical journeys.
One of Alex’s bigger adventures is riding on an airplane. Here, the scale of travel changes dramatically. Looking out the window, he sees the world from a completely different perspective. The excitement he expresses, pointing out the view and asking, “Are we there yet?”, is a reminder that happiness can be found in observing the unfamiliar. The flight is not just about reaching a destination, but about experiencing something new, feeling the movement of the plane, and watching the scenery shift far below.
Eating at his favorite place is another kind of journey for Alex, though it takes place close to home. The restaurant is a familiar stop, and the order is always the same: crispy, crunchy chicken nuggets. This repetition offers comfort in a setting that might otherwise be unpredictable. For Alex, the exploration here is not in trying something new, but in enjoying a favorite experience in a public space.
Although Alex loves going to fun places like the park, the pool, and school, there are also times when he needs to visit the hospital for his care. Even then, Alex shines with resilience and courage, sharing a big smile and a thumbs up to show he’s doing just fine.
By seeing travel and exploration through Alex’s moments, “Spend A Day with Alex” by Dr. Ralph “Defender” Morales, a.k.a. Dr. Mo., offers a gentle reminder that travel for an autistic child is not limited to long trips or unfamiliar countries. Instead, it means moving between familiar and new places, building confidence through routine, and finding joy in both the journey and the destination. This book reminds us that exploration can happen in the seat of a bus, the cabin of a plane, or at a favorite table in a restaurant, and that autism does not have to define a child’s life.
Join Alex on his journey. Read Spend A Day with Alex or the Spanish edition Pasa Un Día Con Alex. Available on Amazon.
Spend A Day with Alex: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1967441367.
Pasa Un Día Con Alex: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FJH4J73Z.
Alex has already shown us his courage and joy in everyday adventures, but his journey is far from over. In the upcoming second book, readers will go deeper, exploring the family and support system that helps Alex thrive each day. This new chapter highlights not only Alex’s world, but also the love, teamwork, and encouragement that surround him. The journey continues with Alex, His Family, and Yours, Together We Can!
