By Lincoln McElwee
We’ve all been in this situation before, no doubt. You board a plane, buckle up with a good book and some snacks and then realize, without a doubt, that there’s a toddler (or two!) on board.
For many of us in this situation, it isn’t so much the panic of if the baby might cry, but when, and for how long. We think: a toddler will start to cry. A child will begin to act up out of boredom. In short, we firmly believe that all hell will presently break loose.
Whether we hold our breath and shake our head despairingly, break into a cold sweat and pray or simply resign ourselves to our perceived fate, it’s funny that we all seem to think that children and air travel aren’t meant to mix.
And as much as none of us really want to be stuck on a flight like this, we often forget that there’s not one parent who wants to be that parent. It’s true. In our apparent inconvenience, we often forget this.
A parent whose child is acting up is just as stressed out—if not more so—than you and/or your fellow passengers.
So if you’re a parent who’s planning a trip this spring where some or all of the travel takes place on board a long or short flight, rest assured. Many of us understand! These tips are here to help with not only preventing the unthinkable from happening, but coping with the situation should it arise.
There’s No Such Thing as Asking Too Many Questions
Airline policies change frequently, which means that policies regarding children also change. Be sure to check with your airline before your trip so that you’re not met with unexpected problems at the gate.
Many airlines will announce pre-boarding for families with children as to give parents more time to get settled in, while many other airlines will allow you to check strollers and possibly even car seats at the gate.
Be sure to do your homework and ask the right questions to ensure a smooth trip for all involved.
In addition to what items can be carried on or stored onboard (strollers, car seats, bassinets), you can ask about discounts depending on a child’s age. More importantly, perhaps, make sure to ask questions about children’s meals. What’s included and can you order meals in advance? This is also a good time to bring up food allergies.
You can find more info on great questions to ask here: http://www.babycenter.com/0_flying-with-small-children-checklist-of-questions-to-ask-you_1460940.bc?page=2#articlesection2
Don’t Forget the Basics
For infants who are formula-fed, be sure to pack extra feed and bottles. You always want to prepare for the unexpected, like delays and cancelled flights, etc.
Common practice is to keep newborns sucking both during takeoff and landing, so whether your child happens to be nursing, is bottle-fed or you want to make use of a pacifier, be sure to prep for these two important moments of the flight.
Using medication for your child is purely a parental judgment call, but if you subscribe to it and want to ease those aching earlobes, be sure to pack the proper dosage of acetaminophen for your child.
Always carry extra changes of clothing as well, especially for infants. You’ll want to make sure you have a change (or two) of clothing as well, in case things get messy.
Goodies, Snacks, Treats—A Parent’s Best Friend
Remember to pack snacks and treats that your children will like and respond favorably to. If the airplane food goes south or a toddler refuses to eat, have backup, such as juice boxes, precut fruit or vegetables, and other age-appropriate snacks. Always be sure to check with the airline so that you know what liquids and open-food items can and can’t be carried on.
Also, wet naps or moist towelettes work great for in-flight cleanup and for periods of time where moving about the cabin isn’t allowed.
A Little Politeness Goes a Long Way
Many passengers are simply appalled by what appears to be the lack of care or concern from a parent whose child is crying or acting up. Even if you subscribe to the notion that “kids will be kids” or that “children cry, get over it,” try and have a bit more respect for others. As your child can’t apologize for being a noisy nuisance, you can.
This simple act can in fact go a long way in helping to ease tension among passengers when your child unexpectedly becomes the center of unwanted attention.
Contrary to popular belief, families can have a worry-free time of it while traveling by air with children of all ages.
The trick is to be prepared. In doing so, you’ll minimize your stress level, the stress levels of the passengers onboard and, most importantly, the stress level of your child.
For more information, feel free to visit the following sites:
- http://www.parents.com/fun/vacation/planning/how-to-fly-with-baby/
- http://havebabywilltravel.com/tips-for-flying-with-an-infant-or-toddler/
- http://www.babycenter.com/0_travel-with-baby-how-we-can-help_7155.bc
