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Our Center Parcs Journey So Far
We’re back with the second-last instalment of our Center Parcs family trip.
If you missed the start, you can catch up here:
Center Parcs with an Autistic Child – Day 1 (The Hard Day)
Center Parcs with an Autistic Child – Day 2 (It Got Better)
By Day 3, everything was already starting to feel easier.
Emily was coping better with transitions, waiting, and leaving the lodge.
And best of all… it was Emily’s birthday 🎉
Day 3 – Emily’s Birthday at Center Parcs
A Little Birthday Magic (and Birthday Donuts!)
Center Parcs left a birthday message for Emily, and it really did make her feel special.
It’s those small, thoughtful touches that make a big difference.
We had planned to get a birthday cake from the shop, but when we went on Wednesday there were no cakes left. Instead, there were donuts and candles, so that became her birthday “cake” — and honestly, she loved it just as much 🍩🎂
The funny part?
When we went back to the shop on Thursday, the cake section was fully stocked again!
Sometimes it doesn’t go to plan — but it still turns into a lovely memory.
Breakfast at the Sports Café
We went for breakfast in the Sports Café and it was delicious.
There was a bit of a wait,
but we had Emily’s soft headphones and her phone with us, which helped her regulate while we waited.
Baby Owl Encounter – and a Change of Plan
We had a baby owl encounter booked, but Emily struggled with the waiting.
We cancelled just 5 minutes before and still received 50% of the cost back, which was very fair.
Sometimes, plans just have to change — and that’s okay.
Coffee Dock & a Quiet Break
We headed to the Coffee Dock for a coffee and a lovely dessert slice.
Emily was happy to wait there, and we enjoyed a calm break before walking around.
Toy Shop & Busy Books
The toy shop had a really nice selection.
Prices were higher than normal shops (as expected), but Emily spotted two busy books — perfect birthday presents.
The toy shop is filled with Lego and sensory toys. I do think there is something for every interest in it. They have chosen a good mix of items.
Build-A-Bear Birthday Surprise 🧸
We noticed the Build-A-Bear workshop was quiet and asked if we could go in early.
They moved our booking forward with no problem at all.
Emily made a pink unicorn called Sofia, picked three hearts (because she’s unique!), and even got a passport with the same birthday as her 💕
The staff were absolutely amazing — one team member was also autistic and shared some wonderful accessibility ideas.
Swimming & Dinner
After a rest in the lodge, we went swimming around 5–6pm.
Emily loved floating in the water.
We had dinner in the pool bar — delicious again — although Emily was far more interested in getting back into the pool!
A Very Special Lodge Visitor 🦊
That evening, a fox came right up to the lodge window.
I nearly jumped out of my skin!
Emily’s reaction?
“A fox.”
And back to the couch she went 😄
Emily went to bed easily — and that wrapped up Day 3.
Day 4 – Slower, Calmer, Easier
Thursday was a much quieter day.
We packed up a little as we planned to leave early on Friday.
We had brunch in the Sports Café again (delicious as always).
The Ball Wall
We tried the Ball Wall activity.
It was okay — Emily struggled a bit but still enjoyed it.
It felt a little overwhelming with people watching, which is something to keep in mind if your child is sensitive to being observed.
Swimming Again & Lodge Dinner
After more packing, we had dinner in the lodge and headed back to the pool for one last swim.
Heading Home
Friday morning we packed everything up and headed home 😊
Coming Next…
Did You Enjoy This Blog?
In the final post, I’ll be sharing:
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What we brought
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What we’d recommend
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What we’d do differently
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And what we’d love to try next time
Catch up on the full trip:
Day 1 – We struggled
Day 2 – It got better
What activities would you recommend for next time?
Have a must-bring item for family trips?
Share in the comments on our Facebook or Instagram so other families can benefit 💛
Helpful for Your Own Family Trip
Travelling can feel overwhelming for autistic children.
Visual supports can really help prepare for change and new environments.
Download our Holiday Visual Schedule – designed to help children understand what’s coming next and feel safe while travelling.
Check out our other visuals below in our store