Getting Around the Worry:
What Has Worked for Us May Work for You:
Give Yourself Time:
Make sure you give yourself plenty of time at the airport. Lines can be unpredictable and sometimes security can take longer then anticipated. If you have time after security, stock up on drinks and snacks, then find a less crowded area to spread out. Let your kids run around. They are about to be stuck, strapped into a seat for two to ten hours, so let them get their energy out. Most travelers will think it’s cute to see them running around in the airport as opposed to having too much energy on the plane.
Car Seats:
If you have them, bring them! We had our kids in car seats up until 2 years of age. As babies we bought each kid their own seat and plopped them into their baby seats and strapped them to their airplane seat. We even put them in their 5-point harness seats and strapped them into their plane seats. It kept them strapped down and a lot of time our kids would fall asleep. Yes it was a hassle to drag car seats, but for peace or mind it was worth it. Most airlines will allow you to have your kid on your lap from ages 0-2yrs.
Snacks, Snacks and More Snacks:
Toys and Books:
Electronics= Sedation:
I know, we are all told to limit screen time, but truthfully all rules should go out the window on flights. Who cares if the adult passenger glares at you shamefully for letting your kid spend hours on an screen. I can guarantee, that same adult passenger would glare at you shamefully if your child were having a massive melt down. I’m all for the electronics on the plane, it has been the best sedative our kids could ever take. Jack them up with movies and tv shows and plenty of games, and your trip is good to go.