8 Tips For Flying With A Boisterous Toddler
Flying is stressful at the best of times, but with a couple of toddlers in tow, this journey could turn into a full-blown nightmare. If you come prepared, you should be fine. Just make sure that you leave with plenty of time to spare and a lot of entertainment-related gadgets.
Plan Your Flight
For many parents, the fear of disturbing other passengers can be pretty palpable. Plan out your flight in 15 minute slots, so you have brought plenty of activities to keep the toddlers occupied on the journey. Usually, kids start acting out when they are uncomfortable or bored, so have plenty of things to do, and make them as comfortable as possible.
Sleep Is Your Ally
If you can carefully plan it this way, keep the kids tired, so they fall asleep on the plan. A lot of walking around can often wear out a toddler, so perhaps explore the airport before the flight, or play a number of active games in the waiting room, to blow off some steam.
iPad And Headphones
If there are no movies on your plane, loading your iPad up with a few films and some headphones will keep them distracted for as long as your battery lasts. Now is not the time to worry about TV hours. Whatever was restricted before, in terms of screentime, should be lifted for the greater good. It also means that they are more likely to be quiet and well-behaved, as this trip will feel special to them – no Mum or Dad telling them off about watching too much TV.
Snacks And Treats
Of course, you don’t want to jack a toddler up on sugar. However, a few small treats, to be brought out occasionally, will keep them from getting hungry, and it also helps to reinforce good behaviour. Don’t underestimate the power of bribery.
Make It Easy For Yourself
When you reach your destination, if you’re not using a rental car, don’t try and handle the public transport system, with a bunch of wayward toddlers and a load of suitcases. Rent yourself a private car from the airport – Blacklane is reliable and runs from a number of international cities.
Book A Direct Line
Unless you really have to, don’t be tempted to get two flights – go for the direct line every time. One flight is enough of a faff, without having to board two and increasing the chances of something going wrong.
Something To Suck On
As we all know, the air pressure changes when ascending and descending. Have a couple of hard-boiled sweets to give to your kids to suck on during take-off and landing, as toddlers probably won’t react well to their ears popping and pain in general.
Know Your Kids
At the end of the day, you know best what will keep your kids occupied, whether that’s a Gameboy or a stack of books. Let them have free reign of their favourite hobby, in order to keep them quiet.