How do I survive a flight with a toddler (ears, snacks, naps)?
What is more daunting than packing for a family vacation? It’s the prospect of flying with your toddler. The anxiety of keeping your little one entertained, comfortable and calm in a confined space for hours can be overwhelming. But take heart; countless parents have navigated these turbulent waters before and emerged victorious. Let me share with you some tried-and-tested strategies that will help you to not just survive but actually enjoy this journey.
The key to successful flying with toddlers lies in understanding their needs and preparing accordingly. Toddlers are curious beings who thrive on routine and familiarity. Disrupting their daily regimen can cause discomfort or distress which manifests as tantrums or crying bouts during flights. So, how do we avoid this?
Pre-flight Preparations: Setting the Stage for Success
In my experience, the groundwork for a smooth flight begins much before boarding the airplane. This preparation phase involves acclimating your child to what lies ahead so that they aren’t caught off-guard by the unfamiliar environment and procedures.
Start by introducing them to the concept of air travel through books or videos about airplanes and airports. Talk about what happens at an airport – from check-in to security checks – so they know what to expect.
Packing also plays a significant role here. Make sure you pack enough toys, books or games that your child enjoys along with comfort items like their favorite blanket or stuffed animal.
Easing Ear Pressure: A Common Concern Addressed
A common concern among parents when flying with toddlers is ear discomfort due to changes in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing. Children’s eustachian tubes are narrower than adults’, making them more susceptible to blockages and discomfort.
Swallowing helps to equalize this pressure. For toddlers, sucking on a pacifier, sippy cup or bottle during ascent and descent can provide relief. Chewing snacks also serves the same purpose. If your child is old enough, encouraging them to yawn or blow their nose gently can also help.
Remember to keep your child well-hydrated during the flight as dehydration can exacerbate ear discomfort. Avoid giving them sugary drinks as it could lead to a sugar rush and subsequent crash which is not ideal in a confined space like an airplane.
The Power of Snacks: Not Just for Hunger Pangs
Snacks are not just hunger-busters; they are powerful tools in your arsenal when flying with toddlers. The right kind of snacks can serve multiple purposes – from providing comfort and distraction to aiding sleep and alleviating ear pressure.
Pack a variety of snacks that your toddler enjoys. Opt for non-messy options that are easy to eat and won’t spoil easily. Some good choices include fresh fruits, cut-up vegetables, crackers, cheese sticks, yogurt pouches and dry cereal.
Time snack breaks strategically around takeoff, landing or when you sense an impending meltdown. But remember not to overdo it as too much snacking could lead to an upset tummy.
Navigating Nap Times: Ensuring Restful Sleep
Sleeping on flights is tricky for adults let alone toddlers who thrive on routine nap times in familiar environments. But with some planning ahead, you can ensure that your little one gets restful sleep during the flight.
If possible, schedule flights around your toddler’s nap time so they’ll naturally be ready for sleep once onboard. Bring along their favorite blanket or stuffed toy to create a familiar sleep environment.
Once the seatbelt sign is off, feel free to walk up and down the aisle with your child. The movement can help lull them to sleep. If they’re getting cranky but refuse to nap, try dimming their area or using a white noise app on your phone.
Keeping Them Engaged: Activities and Entertainment
Keeping your toddler entertained during flights is important to ensure they remain calm and happy. Remember that novelty sparks interest in toddlers so bringing along new toys or books can be very helpful.
Sticker books, coloring books, puzzles or quiet games are great for keeping them engaged. If you’re okay with screen time, downloading their favorite shows or movies on a tablet could provide some respite too.
Avoid toys with small parts that could get lost easily or noisy toys that might disturb fellow passengers. Also remember to pace the activities so you don’t exhaust all options too soon into the flight.
Embracing Imperfections
Flying with toddlers is not about achieving perfection; it’s about managing expectations – yours and theirs – and being prepared for contingencies. There will be moments of chaos, unexpected tantrums and perhaps even judgmental glances from co-passengers but remember that it’s all part of the journey.
Your toddler looks up to you for cues on how to react in unfamiliar situations like these. So if you stay calm and composed even when things don’t go according plan, chances are they’ll follow suit. And when things do get overwhelming – as they sometimes will – take a deep breath, remind yourself that this too shall pass and keep going because you’ve got this!
In this dance of anticipation and adaptation lies an opportunity for learning and growth – for you as a parent and for your child. So embrace it with open arms, patience and a dash of humor because these are the moments that make parenthood truly special.
Further Reading: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Positive Parenting Tips
