Flying With Kids? How to Stay Calm and Keep Your Sanity

Anyone who has had to deal with an airport and the hassle of flying lately knows that it is no treat.  From the long lines and the security checkpoints, to the tight spaces and lack of leg room once you are onboard the plane, none of it is a treat and that is if you are on your own.  When you travel by plane with a child, the headache of flying can go from bad to worse.

However, it doesn’t always need to be the case, nor do you have to spend all of your time worrying about being that parent with the crying child. 

Here are some handy tips that will help keep your stress level and your temper in check the next time you are flying with a child in tow:

First, be aware of when you travel.  The fewer people there are at the airport, the less crowded it will be and the easier it will be for you to navigate with your little one.  If you have the option, fly Mondays through Wednesdays, and try to book your flight mid-day or in the evening.

Next, give yourself a cushion when it comes to time.  You know you are travelling with a child; so therefore, everything is naturally going to take LONGER.  Plan for this and allow yourself extra time so you don’t feel frantic or rushed.

Remember to prep your child, talk to him days, maybe even weeks in advance, over what to expect at the airport and during your trip, and how he is expected to behave along the way.  Make a game out of the experience and show your excitement, it will be contagious and he will be more likely to be at ease if you.

Finally, while you are on the plane, arrange for your child to have a seat next to the window.  Kids love the view and will be fascinated at how the world looks from 30,000 feet.  If he tires of that make sure you have toys, but bring them out one at a time.  This will keep you organized and provide the maximum level of entertainment to your child at the same time.