Prepare toddlers for a calm and quiet flightBy Debbie Cohen
Special to Reminder Publications
Dear Debbie,
I just saw a disturbing story on the TV. It seems that a family with a crying three year old was told to leave the airplane before departure. We are planning on visiting family in Florida in March and my two children (3 and 5) have had their "moments" too. How can I get them and everyone else through the flight?
Scared to Fly Mom
Dear Scared,
Traveling with little children can be "scary" but with some planning it can be a breeze. You have plenty of time to get both you and your children ready for the airplane ride.
Firstly, go to the library and get some books about airplanes and flying. Books with pictures of the inside of an airplane would be best. Ask your friends if anyone has a toy plane your children can borrow (Little Tykes has a great one). As the children play or look at pictures of airplanes, talk to them about who and what is in a plane.
Practice sitting side by side by side with kitchen chairs. Take turns being a passenger and a steward or stewardess. Explain that just like the car, they must be strapped into a seat before the plane can move. Tell the children that lots of people will be on the plane and it will be noisy, but that you will be able to hear them and talk to them just fine. Further explain that the ride might sometimes be bumpy, just like when they drive on an uneven road.
Explain the whole process as best you can from boarding, to eating snack (I will get to that in a minute), to going to the bathroom (trust me they will want to go at least once!).
You will find it easiest if you can plan the trip so that you are flying when the children are well rested or at night if you are sure they will sleep. A tired child is cranky no matter what. Add to that the excitement of travel and you could have a problem.
Dress yourself and the children in comfortable clothes (no overalls or belts-those bathrooms are tiny!). Bring plenty of healthy snacks. You'll have to get juice on the plane. Try to avoid a lot of liquid or you will be back to the bathroom before you have strapped back in from the last potty trip! Give each child their own snack this is not a good time to ask them to share.
A few days before you travel, take the children to the local Dollar Store and let them pick out a few toys to keep them busy in their seats on the plane. Hold these toys for the trip as they will be new and exciting. Do the same before you take the flight home. Make sure you have some crayons and paper too. If your children enjoy music and you already own music players, bring them along as well. Also bring favorite books and be prepared to spend some time sharing the stories together.
As you know, I am all for security blankets/toys. In this case, however, try a second best security blanket/toy first. "Number one Loveys" should be in your carry on and used for emergency-only situations. And keep your eye on them as a lost "lovey" is trouble!
One more thought, talk to your pediatrician if your children have suffered from ear problems. Your doctor might suggest some medicine to protect your children's ears.
With all that said and done you should have a fine flight and a great visit. Don't forget the sunscreen!
Until next time, be well.
-Deb
Debbie Cohen is the Early Childhood Associate Director at the Springfield Jewish Community Center. The JCC is a constituent agency of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts and of the Community United Way of Pioneer Valley. Do you have a question for Debbie? Email your inquiries to dcohen@springfieldjcc.org or send your inquiry to: Debbie Cohen, Springfield JCC, 1160 Dickinson Street, Springfield, MA 01108.
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