Traveling by plane with children can be a formidable challenge, but with some strategic planning, it can also be manageable. Here’s a compilation of valuable insights gained from years of experience flying with little ones.
1. Subliminal Messaging for Sleep
If you’re traveling with a toddler, consider using gentle persuasion to encourage them to feel sleepy once on the plane. Start early in the day and softly whisper phrases like, “You will feel cozy and warm on the plane, and your eyes will feel heavy.” This approach worked wonders for me and my daughter during one trip, leading her to quickly fall asleep, unlike the previous flight where she was a whirlwind of energy.
2. Stock Up on Familiar Snacks and Supplies
Always bring an abundance of familiar food, milk, and diapers. Unexpected situations can arise, such as being stranded at an airport. On one occasion, my toddler refused all airport food, insisting on the questionable cheese I had packed hours earlier. Familiar snacks can make a world of difference in keeping them calm.
3. Ignore Cranky Passengers
Remember, not everyone understands the demands of traveling with children. If someone expresses frustration at your baby’s cries, take solace in the idea that karma might just come back around. Those who complain may find themselves seated next to a crying child on their next flight.
4. Avoid Medication for Drowsiness
Refrain from giving your child Benadryl to induce sleep. This method can backfire spectacularly, as some children may become even more energetic. The last thing you want is to be trapped in an airplane with hyperactive kids.
5. Hand Sanitizer is Your Friend
Bring plenty of hand sanitizer. It offers peace of mind amidst the chaos. I once caught my son attempting to ingest his seatbelt, which made me question my parenting choices and his hygiene awareness. A humorous approach, like informing him about germs, can help mitigate these antics.
6. Limit Toys
Don’t overpack toys or invest in new ones. When children are restless, they often lose interest in toys. Instead, ask the flight attendant for simple items like plastic cups and straws; these can provide entertainment without the stress of lost toys.
7. Emergency Suckers
Keep dum dum suckers handy for those inevitable meltdowns. During one particularly intense episode, a kind stranger (who may or may not have been a pediatrician) offered my child a sucker, which surprisingly helped calm her down. While caution is advised in accepting candy from strangers, sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures.
8. Utilize Electronics for Older Kids
It’s perfectly acceptable to let older children utilize electronic devices to keep them entertained. When grappling with a restless toddler, you may not have the bandwidth to answer a barrage of questions. Survival of the fittest applies here.
9. Accept Help Gracefully
Don’t hesitate to accept assistance, even if it comes off as condescending. I once stubbornly declined help while struggling with luggage and children, only to regret it later. Accepting help can alleviate stress and make the journey smoother.
10. Don’t Envy Others’ Peace
Lastly, try not to envy fellow travelers who appear unfazed and relaxed. Remember that your time will come to travel without kids, and you’ll be able to enjoy the journey in a more leisurely manner. Until then, plan to celebrate your survival with a well-deserved drink when you reach your destination.
In summary, traveling by air with children involves a mix of preparation, humor, and flexibility. With these tips, you can make the experience a bit less daunting and a lot more enjoyable.
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