Additional Security Screening? (x-posted on disABILITIES)

[Bird-Mom]

My will be 3 year old has a severe speech (expressive and receptive) as well as definite cognitive and social delays. She would not understand us preparing her in advance, and she will freak out if she is pulled aside. She is very uncooperative for people she doesn't know and would seriously meltdown if they touch or even try to wand her. I am 99% sure that she will not even walk through the metal detector by herself because it scares her (she has flown before). I get sick to my stomach even thinking about it. Has anyone with a developmentally delayed child had this happen? Is there any way to prevent it? I mean, would the airlines note that the child is developmentally delayed and would that excuse her from the possibility?

TIA!

 

[disneyldwjr]

No, they will not excuse her if she is selected. It is unbiased and random and is supposed to be applied to those selected without special treatment.

 

[Bird-Mom]

I am not looking for special treatment...maybe just some faith in humanity that my disabled child is not a terrorist. Believe me when I say that it will be so traumatic on her. Just to give you an idea, she doesn't even comprehend what her name is, let alone me trying to explain what security screening is. I am going to contact the TSA and see if they have a policy for cases like mine.

 

[CarolA]

I was going to suggest contacting the TSA. They might be able to suggest something like a Doctor note. (However, they aren't a touchy friendly agency so if you do get an accomdation from them, get it in writing and take it with you!)

 

[disneyldwjr]

I am not looking for special treatment...maybe just some faith in humanity that my disabled child is not a terrorist. Believe me when I say that it will be so traumatic on her. Just to give you an idea, she doesn't even comprehend what her name is, let alone me trying to explain what security screening is. I am going to contact the TSA and see if they have a policy for cases like mine.

I sure did not think you were looking for special treatment. Don't borrow trouble, chances are good you will not be randomly selected. I think contacting the TSA is a great idea. Have you checked the TSA website?
Good luck and I am hoping for the best for you and your little one.
I went to the TSA site and found this, maybe this will ease your very understandable angst a little.

http://www.tsa.gov/public/interapp/editorial/editorial_1572.xml