If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ve probably experienced everyone’s worst nightmare: an unhappy, unruly child making life difficult not only for their parent but for everyone on the plane.
This is a parent’s worst nightmare. Imagine the shock when their otherwise sweet child turns into a screaming, kicking terror, confined to a small, belted seat at 40,000 feet with nowhere to go. While you may be annoyed, rest assured that the mom or dad is more upset than you, knowing their child is disrupting everyone around them.
If you’re a parent who dreads flying with an infant or toddler—or if you’ve already had a negative flying experience with a little one—you likely fear your next flight. You might even have resigned yourself to car travel or no travel at all until the kids are older. However, according to most child experts, this isn’t necessary. By following a few simple guidelines and tips, you can make flying with kids much easier.
Preparing for Your Flight
Preparation is key when flying with kids, especially small children. Being ready for whatever may arise on the way to the airport, in the terminal, or during the flight can make the difference between a good and bad experience.
- Talk to your child – If your child is old enough to understand, talk with them about what to expect during the trip. Discuss your expectations for behavior, too. Waiting in line, security checks, and the motion of the plane during takeoff can frighten children. Explaining these things in advance can help. Also, remind your child that others on the airplane may be trying to sleep or work, so it’s important to be as quiet as possible.
- Packing – This might be the most important part of your pre-planning. Deciding what to bring and how much of each item to include can be tricky. For infants, plenty of formula or breast milk is essential—use disposable bottle liners if possible (and be sure to adhere to liquid regulations). For toddlers and older kids, juice boxes and other healthy snacks, preferably non-messy ones, are a good idea. And don’t forget bibs!
- Clothing and Diapers – Pack enough diapers for the entire journey, including delays. For older children, bring an extra outfit in case of bathroom accidents (some kids are terrified of airplane bathrooms) or food spills. If your child is potty-training, let them wear a pull-up during the flight.
- Toys – Bring a variety of toys, but don’t overpack; you’ll need room in your carry-on. Consider buying a few new toys as a surprise for your child—it’ll keep them entertained for a longer time. For older kids, hand-held video games, portable DVD players, iPods™, books, puzzle books, and audiobooks are great options. Let your child help pack their own bag with items they’ll enjoy.
- Other Equipment – For infants, a front pack is ideal for keeping your hands free. For slightly older toddlers, a baby backpack is also a good choice. Bring a small, portable stroller that can stay with you until you reach the airplane door, where you’ll hand it to a flight attendant. Also, don’t forget to pack a comfort item, such as a blanket or stuffed toy, for each child.
At the Airport
Once you’ve arrived at the airport and made it through various lines, you’ll most likely face a long wait before boarding. Don’t expect your child to sit quietly by the gate. In fact, tiring them out might be a good idea. Let your child walk with you around the terminal, use the bathroom, explore stores, and even pick out a special treat to enjoy once they’re settled on the plane. Some airports have play areas—ask an airport official or look online before you arrive to find out if your airport has one.
On the Airplane
When parents board an airplane for a long flight, you can almost see their blood pressure rising. Even the most experienced flyers can’t predict what their child might do once the doors close and the plane climbs into the sky.
The biggest fear is, of course, that your child will annoy other passengers. Child-rearing experts say that your first concern should be your child’s comfort, not that of others. After all, you’ll probably never see those people again! Nevertheless, all parents can empathize when your child starts screaming, crying, kicking, or throwing up. But it doesn’t have to be that bad.
- Try to Identify Your Child’s Needs – If your child is acting up, take a moment to figure out why before offering snacks or toys. They may be frightened, their seatbelt may be too tight, or their ears may have popped. Once you identify the problem, it’s easier to address.
- Accept Help – Believe it or not, some passengers may be willing to help, especially if you’re traveling with more than one child. It’s okay to accept offers from others who want to entertain your child for a while (as long as they’re within your sight). Often, the novelty of interacting with someone new can keep your child happy for a time. Flight attendants may also offer to help by walking with your infant or toddler if they’re not too busy.
- Changing Diapers – Some airplane bathrooms have changing tables that fold down. Ask your flight attendant when you board if your plane has one. These are great for babies but can be a bit small for toddlers. Another option is to put down the toilet seat and use that as a changing table. If it’s just a wet diaper, you might be able to change your child in your seat, but make sure to put down a blanket or something else to protect the seat. Soiled diapers should always be changed away from other passengers to avoid both sight and smell.
Smile and Hold Your Tongue
Remember, you know your child best. If others offer suggestions—or worse, make rude remarks or comments—smile, thank them for their concerns, and let them know you’re doing your best to comfort your child. A child’s misbehavior on an airplane doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent, just a frazzled one. Getting angry—whether with your child or with annoyed passengers—will only make your child more agitated. Stay calm. It’ll be over soon.
