Traveling with Confidence: Why Portable Seating Matters for Kids with Disabilities

Dr Laura Finney - ClinSci, PhD, MSc, BEng Group Clinical Research Director

For many families, the idea of travel sparks excitement - new experiences, bonding time, and memorable moments. But for parents of children with disabilities, travel can also bring a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to safe and supported seating.
That’s where portable medical seating for children with disabilities becomes essential.
Why Traditional Seating Isn’t Enough
Standard seats on airplanes, in restaurants, or even in the playpark aren’t designed for children with altered muscle tone, postural instability, or complex physical needs. Without proper support, travel can be uncomfortable, unsafe or even impossible.
Depending on their unique needs, children may slide forwards, fall sideways, fatigue quickly or just need to be held all the time - making long flights or family outings stressful for everyone.
Meet the GoTo Seat: A Portable, Paediatric Medical Device
The GoTo Seat by Firefly is a lightweight, postural support seat designed specifically for children who need extra help sitting upright in everyday environments.
Developed by Leckey, a globally trusted name in paediatric medical devices, the GoTo Seat is:
● Portable and lightweight - folds flat for easy transport
● Medically sound - supports upright posture with head, trunk, and pelvic alignment
● Travel-safe - used by families on flights, buses, and trains
● Versatile - can be used in shopping carts, swings, dining chairs, or on the floor
This adaptive seating solution bridges the gap between clinical support and real-life convenience - so kids can join in, no matter where the day leads.
Is the GoTo Seat Right for My Child?
If your child has:
● Reduced head and trunk control
● Cerebral palsy
● Developmental delays
● Or simply needs extra postural support at home and on the go
… the GoTo Seat may be an ideal travel companion. It's designed for children aged 1–8, with size and accessory options to match your child's needs.
What Therapists Are Saying
“My favourite thing about GoTo is giving kids the chance to participate freely in the everyday activities we take for granted. Jumping onto a swingset, sitting up at the table with mum and dad in a restaurant, or just playing or relaxing at home. GoTo is such a simple piece of assistive technology which offers so much opportunity”
- James Gilmour Occupational Therapist, Leckey, UK
Clinicians recommend the GoTo Seat because it supports alignment and improves upper limb function all while making family outings more accessible — a win-win for therapy and participation.
Ready for Takeoff? Here's How to Get Started
✅ Visit the GoTo Seat product page
✅ Review size guides and support options
✅ Browse real parent stories and therapist reviews
✅ Join thousands of families who’ve made travel possible again
Final Thoughts: Every Family Deserves Freedom to Explore
At Firefly, we believe that mobility and comfort are rights, not luxuries. That’s why we work with our parent company Leckey to design paediatric assistive devices that bring clinical-grade support into real-world environments.
Whether it’s a family holiday or a trip to the park, let adaptive seating like the GoTo Seat make those moments accessible - and memorable.
(NOTE: Firefly advise always contacting the airline in advance of bringing the GoTo. Speak to the airline’s Special Assistance team in plenty of time, and advise them that your child has been prescribed a postural support seat by their doctor, you have a letter indicating this, and you'd like confirmation before travelling that there'll be no issue turning up with the seat which has its own extension belt to secure it, but still allows the airplane’s normal FAA required seat belt to be used.)