The thought of a stressful flight with your little ones is sometimes enough to make you want to stay at home.
If something goes wrong, you are a long way from help. What if they get sick? What happens if they won’t fall asleep? What if they want to run up and down the aisles screaming?
Before you cancel your tickets, try not to fret. With a few simple tips, you should be able to avoid any major turbulence while flying with your kids.
1. Be prepared
99% of the time your child will be cranky or screaming because they are either tired, bored or hungry. Pack enough food and toys to keep them full and entertained, and provide opportunity for them to rest on the plane. Bring a comforter if travelling with a young child, or their favourite pillow to help them sleep.
2. Communicate
It's a good idea to talk to your child before, during and after the flight, so they know exactly what to expect. As you go through each procedure during the flight, talk to your child so they are prepared and comfortable.
3. Get organised
As soon as you board the plane, get organised and settled in with every thing you need. Have essentials stored in the pockets and under the chair. Now you don’t have to climb over everyone or wait until the seat belt sign is off to get what your child wants.
4. Go for walks
If on a long haul flight especially, take your child for a walk up and down the plane every hour. Not only is it essential for your health to stretch your legs, but your child will love all the attention they get from the other passengers.
5. Have quiet activities to keep the kids occupied
You can’t go wrong with colouring books and pencils, or pack a couple of their favourite story books for quiet reading.
6. Ask for help
If you are struggling, ask the flight attendants for help. If they're good at their jobs, they'll probably have a few of their own tricks and tips up their sleeves to help you with the kids.
7. Take snacks on board
Every airline and flight serves different meals and snacks, and some not at all depending on the length of the flight. Take plenty of food and water with you on the plane, just in case your child doesn't like the food being served, or is hungry or thirsty during the flight.
8. Get there early
Get to the airport as early as you can, to save a panicked rush with strollers and toys to catch your flight. Start on the right foot, to make sure the rest of your journey goes smoothly.
9. Have them sit in the middle
For safety, keep the kids sitting between you and your partner in the middle seats. This way, you know if they are trying to get out into the aisle without you.
10. Help their ears on landing
Babies have not yet developed the ability to equalise their eardrums naturally. If you have ever felt this pressure on your ears before, you’ll know why so many babies scream during landing. Have your baby suck on your finger when landing. For older children, give them sweets to suck on.
Image via Pinterest.
