FLYING WITH KIDS: KEEPING IT SANE

Getting Around the Worry:

We have been traveling with our kids since they were infants, which--in retrospect--was probably the easiest time to travel with them. Whether traveling with one or three, flying with kids can pose a challenge at any age.  Babies may scream for two hours straight, toddlers are not going to put up with staying seated for an unspecified amount of time, and 'tweens will blame you for the boredom. We worry about the amount of stuff we need to bring, their behavior and the reaction of our fellow passengers. The stress begins the moment you pack the car up and the arguments are sure to follow. Then of course come the lines. The line to check in the line for security, it's a long process sure to make any child a bit cranky.

What Has Worked for Us May Work for You:

Give Yourself Time:

Make sure you give yourself plenty of time at the airport. Lines can be unpredictable and sometimes security can take longer then anticipated. If you have time after security, stock up on drinks and snacks, then find a less crowded area to spread out. Let your kids run around. They are about to be stuck, strapped into a seat for two to ten hours, so let them get their energy out. Most travelers will think it's cute to see them running around in the airport as opposed to having too much energy on the plane. You may not need 12 hours like my husband thinks necessary, but do leave a buffer of time.

Car Seats:

If you have them, bring them! We had our kids in car seats up until 2 years of age. As babies we bought each kid their own seat and plopped them into their baby seats and strapped them to their airplane seat. We even put them in their 5-point harness seats and strapped them into their plane seats. It kept them strapped down and a lot of time our kids would fall asleep. Yes it was a hassle to drag car seats, but for peace or mind it was worth it. We strapped the car seats to a folding luggage cart with bungees, and that made it easy to wheel around the airport and out.

Snacks, Snacks and More Snacks:

You can never have enough snacks for the plane. Kids seem to be their hungriest the second they get on the plane. If you are like us and don't frequently give your kids juice and soda, break the rules and treat them. It will make them happy and will make you happy.

Toys and Books:

Depending on age, bring enough toys and books to keep your kids active and engaged.  Although this may not carry your kids through the entire flight, it will keep them busy for some of it. Coloring books also may buy some time, but keep in mind attention spans are not long for toddlers.

Electronics= Sedation:

I know, we are all told to limit screen time, but truthfully all rules should go out the window on flights. Who cares if the adult passenger glares at you shamefully for letting your kid spend hours on an screen? I can guarantee that the same adult passenger would glare at you shamefully if your child were having a massive meltdown.  I'm all for the electronics on the plane; it has been the best sedative our kids could ever take. Jack them up with movies and tv shows and plenty of games, and your trip is good to go.