Surviving an Airplane Trip with the Kids

Planning a vacation is exciting for the whole family. Thinking of the plane trip may not be as exciting, especially if it will be a long trip. Perhaps you are dreading the airplane ride, but relax! Planning ahead is the key to making the airplane ride a success.

Tips for Survival

Pack healthy snacks. Leave the sugar at home. You will be glad you did and so will the passengers sitting around you. There is nothing worse than giving your child a sugar high then requiring them to sit still and be quiet. Check with your airline to make sure your snacks are allowed. Usually zip lock bags with goldfish, pretzels or crackers are fine.
When you get to the airport get rid of that energy. Instead of taking the tram or moving sidewalk, use this opportunity to let the kids walk and explore. Plan for the extra time it may take to walk. All the walking will pay off later.
Bring quiet activities like books and coloring books with crayons. Bring small travel games for the older kids. Bring games and books that you know your child likes and pack a couple of new ones as a surprise. Perhaps you can bring a book with pictures of airplanes in it.
Plan for the air pressure on the plane. Make sure you have a pacifier or bottle for the little ones and chewing gum or lollipops will work for the older kids. This helps alleviate ear pressure during take off and landing.
Bring the laptop. Your child can listen to music or watch a movie during the flight.
Take the good with the bad. Most of your trip will go smoothly but chances are you are gong to have a cranky toddler or a restless preschooler (even an elementary age child) at some point. Staying calm will help your child remain clam or calm down sooner if agitated. If your child cries take care of your child’s needs first instead of worrying about those around you. What seems like an eternity is really only a short time. Remember kids can not sit still for a long time, so get up and walk the isle.
Relax and have fun, it will be okay!

Robin Greene is a mom of two and a kindergarten teacher. She has had many experiences with children and she loves to share her thoughts and ideas with others. Robin enjoys writing for mybabyclothes.com during her spare time. Stop by and take a look at the huge selection of baby clothes, the beautiful baby tutus and gorgeous baby headbands.

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