How can children be kept amused and comfortable during a flight? You know your children better than anyone else. You may already know what you need to do to keep them happy and content on a flight. If you aren't sure, these basic tips might be just what you need for a quiet and uneventful flight.
Air travel is more restrictive than travel by automobile. You can't ask the pilot to pull over so everyone can get out and stretch their legs. You also have to worry about bored children creating a ruckus that may disturb everyone else on the plane. A little planning on your part will help keep your children content while in the air.
Rest is just as important for children as it is for adults.
"Probably the first thing to do is to ensure that they've had a good rest the night before, so that they're well rested and less likely to get overly tired," says Milena Garita, Reservations Sales Representative with Continental Airlines.
Rest is just as important for children as it is for adults.
"Probably the first thing to do is to ensure that they've had a good rest the night before, so that they're well rested and less likely to get overly tired," says Milena Garita, Reservations Sales Representative with Continental Airlines.
If your children have never been on a plane before, take some time to explain what is going to happen.
"If they're old enough, it might also be a good idea to talk to them about the trip that they'll be taking. Hopefully it'll get them excited at the prospect of taking a trip in an airplane, and they'll be looking forward to it," says Garita.
Some children are scared the first time they step on an airplane. There are a few things you can do to help them.
"Let them bring things that are familiar to them, such as favorite toys," says Garita. "Also you might want to check a local bookstore or library to see if maybe they have books that might address the issue."
Bring along your children's favorite activities to help keep them occupied. Call your airline ahead of time to find out what their policies are in regards to toys.
"Most airlines will let children carry a small backpack," says Garita. "If possible, ask your child what toys or special objects they might want to bring with them, such as a few favorite books, coloring books and crayons, or a small stuffed toy."
If you have older children or teenagers, let them bring along what they are most interested in.
"For older children who might enjoy video games or watching DVDs, bring along their hand-held video game players or portable DVD players," says Garita.
If you bring electronic devices, be sure to ask your airline what is acceptable and what is not. Don't forget the most important accessory.
"Remember to pack extra batteries, especially on long trips," says Garita.
Some children are picky eaters. If you know yours are, talk to the airline ahead of time about meals and snacks.
"For longer trips, it might be a good idea to ask the airline if they provide children's meals. They might not be able to guarantee a particular food item, but it's usually a very kid-friendly menu," says Garita.
If you know your child will eat nothing but peanut butter and jelly, you have another option.
"If the airline reads you a list of possible food items and none are to your child's taste, then it may be a good idea to pack them a meal to bring on the plane," says Garita.
Another important aspect of keeping a child happy during a flight is comfort.
"Having your child wear comfortable clothing and footwear is a good idea," says Garita.
You know your children better than anyone else. You may already know what you need to do to keep them happy and content on a flight. If you aren't sure, these basic tips might be just what you need for a quiet and uneventful flight.
