1. DOWNLOAD KIDS’ APPS
Before you travel, download some kids’ games or kid-friendly apps to your smartphone. Remember to switch off your phone during takeoff and landing, and put it on Airplane mode. Stickers are also great for keeping children entertained for a while. Alternatively, scan through the airline’s inflight entertainment. I was lucky this time—Qatar Airways had R’s favorite movie, The Good Dinosaur. That was one hour of bliss!
2. BRING EXTRA SUPPLIES
Bring as much food and as many toys as you can fit into your carry-on luggage.
3. BURN ENERGY
Let your kid burn energy before you board. We love going up and down the escalators. If you are lucky, some airports have playgrounds for kids—spend a few minutes or hours there as you wait for your next flight, but remember to always keep an eye on him or her.
4. BOARD LAST
I know we all look forward to priority boarding, but next time, board at the last minute and save yourself an extra half hour on the plane.
5. EASE EAR PAIN
Bring lollipops for takeoff and landing. The sucking will help prevent your child’s little ears from hurting due to the air-pressure changes in the cabin during those times.
6. CHOOSE AN AISLE SEAT
Make sure one of your seats is an aisle seat, just in case your restless toddler wants to go up and down the aisle.
7. CROSS YOUR FINGERS AND PRAY
Because at times, none of the above works. Kids have a mind of their own.
Do you have any tips or magic potions? I would like to hear from other mums out there.
Laura.
