Question 1

What is a TSA Passport for autism?

Accepted Answer

A TSA Passport is a personalized document designed to share essential information about an individual with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with family, friends, and caregivers. It includes details about sensory profile, communication preferences, interests, helpful strategies, and things to avoid to better support the person.

Question 2

What information should be included in the sensory profile section?

Accepted Answer

The sensory profile section allows you to identify specific sensitivities including noise, light, touch, odors, crowds, textures, food, and movement. This helps others understand what sensory experiences might be challenging or overwhelming for the individual.

Question 3

What communication methods can be specified in the TSA Passport?

Accepted Answer

The communication section covers various methods including verbal communication, pictograms, gestures, written communication, tablet use, limited verbal abilities, echolalia, and processing time needs. This helps others understand how best to communicate with the individual.

Question 4

What types of helpful strategies are included in the passport?

Accepted Answer

Helpful strategies include maintaining routines, providing advance notice, using visual aids, offering ear muffs, allowing breaks, providing quiet corners, fidget tools, and weighted blankets. These strategies can help create a more supportive environment.

Question 5

What situations should be avoided according to the TSA Passport?

Accepted Answer

The passport identifies situations to avoid such as surprises, forced contact, forcing eye contact, screaming, time pressure, sudden changes, punishing during crisis moments, and crowded places. Avoiding these can help prevent distress and meltdowns.

Question 6

How often should the TSA Passport be updated?

Accepted Answer

The TSA Passport should be updated regularly as needs, preferences, and abilities can change over time. The document includes options to save, print, and reset information, and it's recommended to review and update it periodically to ensure it remains accurate and helpful.

🧩 My TSA Passport

Sensory profile

Communication

Interests & Motivations

What helps me

What to avoid

In case of need, please contact

📝 Important notes