Timeshare Information

Are you flying this holiday season to a timeshare rental vacation or family get-together, with a disabled child? To help you prepare for the security screening process at the airport, Part 2 of our 2-Part series on traveling with children will give you tips offered by the TSA on how to navigate that experience as stress-free as possible.

The TSA is made up of parents just like yourselves, who are very aware of parents' concerns and children's fears when presented with the airport security screening process, especially when the child is disabled.

It might seem to many people that insisting that a disabled child go through security check is unwarranted, but the TSA has many examples of dangerous items being hidden in the undercarriage of wheelchairs, in hollowed-out canes, and even in prosthetics.

Parents or guardians of children with disabilities should:

• Inform the security officer if the child has any special needs or medical devices.


• Inform the security officer if you think the child may become upset during the screening process as a result of their disability.


• Offer suggestions on how to best accomplish the screening to minimize any confusion or outburst for the child.


• Ask the security officer for assistance during the process by helping you put your and the child's carry-on items on the X-ray belt.


• Know that at no time during the screening process will you be separated from your child.


• Know that if a private screening is required, you will escort and remain with your child during the private screening process.


• Tell the security officer what your child's abilities are. For example: can the child stand slightly away from equipment to be handwanded, walk through the metal detector, or needs to be carried through the metal detector by the parent/guardian.


• Know that at no time will the security officer remove your child from his/her mobility aid (wheelchair or scooter). You are responsible for removing your child from his/her equipment at your discretion to accomplish screening.


• Know that if your child is unable to walk or stand, the security officer will
  conduct a pat-down search of your child while he/she remains in their mobility aid, as well as a visual and physical inspection of their equipment.

"We specially train our Security Officers and they understand your concern for your children," stated a TSA official. "They will approach your children gently and treat them with respect. If your child becomes uncomfortable or upset, security officers will consult you about the best way to relieve your child's concern."

Read Getting Your Children through Airport Security – Part 1

(Photo credit - tsa.gov)