Air travel can be stressful at the best of times. Add an unpredictable toddler into the mix, and you have a recipe for disaster. Indeed, keeping your little one safe and entertained during a trip to the airport while keeping the inevitable tantrums at bay can feel like an uphill battle. However challenging, travelling with your toddler can be an enjoyable experience for the both of you, provided you are well-prepared and open to suggestions. Read on to find out more.
Many parenting forums and advice blogs differ in terms of when is the “best” time to fly with toddlers and young children, when in fact, the ideal time to fly with your child depends on their individual personality, routine and preferences. For instance, for toddlers accustomed to morning naps, an early morning flight could be ideal, letting them sleep through most of the journey. On the other hand, if your child is not a morning person, it may be worth opting for a later flight to reduce the likelihood of a tiredness-induced public meltdown.
Plane travel can be boring for adults, let alone children. As such, packing toys and activities to keep them entertained throughout the journey is essential. You will be particularly grateful for this foresight if your plane is delayed. Pack whatever you think will keep your little one distracted and occupied - colouring, sticker books, busy boards, puzzles, etc. Additionally, bring familiar items, such as plush toys and blankets for comfort, as airports and plane cabins can be overwhelming and frightening for small children.
There is nothing quite like the wrath of a hungry, grumpy toddler! The slightest hunger pang can quickly turn into a big problem for young children who haven’t yet learnt how to communicate their needs and regulate their emotions - and haven’t we all felt "hangry" from time to time? Keep your toddler’s hunger at bay between meals by providing them with healthy, easy-to-eat snacks, such as fruit, crackers, string cheese and applesauce pouches.
When it comes to air travel, time is of the essence. However, being on time when caring for a fussy toddler is a rare luxury. Therefore, it is always wise to leave as much time as possible, to account for tantrums, accidents, misplaced items and mischief on the morning of your departure. Additionally, going through security and check-in processes with a toddler can take longer than when you’re travelling alone or with other adults. Having extra time ensures you can navigate these procedures calmly and efficiently without overwhelming your little one.
When it comes to travelling with babies and young children, a good-quality stroller is a lifesaver. Travel strollers are designed with ease of use and manoeuvrability in mind, enabling you to navigate busy airports and train stations seamlessly. Additionally, travel strollers come with quick and straightforward folding mechanisms, making them easy to store in overhead compartments or stow in the aeroplane's cargo hold. For parents of younger toddlers and babies, it may also be worth investing in a comfortable, ergonomic carrier, such as the Ergobaby Omni Dream Baby Carrier.
Your toddler may not enjoy the restrictive environment of a flight cabin, particularly if you’re in for a long-haul journey. Sitting still for long periods of time is unnatural for young children, who have seemingly endless supplies of energy. However, you can reduce the likelihood of your toddler becoming restless and irritated during your flight by allowing them to exert as much energy as possible beforehand. Allow them to explore the airport with you, or challenge them to a game that involves moving around. Here are some game ideas to spark your imagination.
As mentioned, airports, flight cabins and other busy, unfamiliar environments can be scary for young children, causing them to become upset and frustrated. Although flying with your little one can come with its fair share of challenges, remaining calm and patient is crucial. Offer them continuous and consistent reassurance, along with positive reinforcement for good behaviour. By remaining patient and empathetic, you create a more soothing atmosphere, and your little one is more likely to enjoy their experience, as will you.