What a magical experience flying can be. A flight can take you to visit family or see another part of the country — even another part of the world. But when it’s time to start preparing for air travel with your toddler or preschooler, you might wonder how you can plan ahead to make your travel day a little easier. To help, we’ve put together seven tips for flying with your child. Your family is one flight away from making memories that will last a lifetime. We hope you’ll find these tips helpful!
1. Tell Your Child What to Expect Beforehand
It’s important to explain to your child what the day will entail. Share some interesting details about the process of checking your bags, watching the planes steer into the gates, and the people they will see traveling and working. Try to walk them through each step of the process. A good way to introduce a new experience is to read a book or watch a video. You might try Lucy Cousins’ Maisy Goes on a Plane. From arriving at the airport to the plane landing, preparing your child for what to expect can make all the difference.
2. Plan for Extra Time Before Your Flight
Just as it may take more time than expected to leave the house, it will likely take more time to prepare for and board your flight. Make sure to build in time for bathroom and food breaks at the airport as well as added time to help your child through security. The recommended airport arrival time is usually around two hours for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. Adding some extra time depending on your child’s approach to new situations may help your day run more smoothly.
3. Pack Surprise Activities
Everything is better with fun surprises, wouldn’t you agree? Keep your little one entertained and engaged with surprise snacks, games, and toys. They’ll be excitedly waiting for what you’re going to pull out next. Load these preschool learning apps on your tablet in advance for some educational screen time while you’re in the air.
4. Be Strategic with Your Carry-On Bag
Although it’s important to pack everything you need, also remember that whatever you pack will be extra weight to carry in the airport. Consider using packing cubes or limiting yourself to a personal item and a carry-on to make sure that you’re making the most of your available space.
5. Consider Checking a Small Stroller
To avoid maneuvering with a large stroller, consider taking an umbrella stroller that will easily fold up at the gate. The crew will stow the stroller for you and have it waiting for you when you debark, making it a cinch to head to your next destination.
6. Dress Your Child in Layers and Slip-On Shoes
Another way to stay ahead of the game is to dress your child in layers and slip-on shoes. This way, you’ll be able to easily fit their comfort needs throughout the day. Slip-on shoes also serve a purpose in the TSA line. Without tiny laces to tie, your family can move smoothly through security before they board the plane.
7. Pack a Snack, Bottle, or Lollipop
Similar to adults, children often find the air pressure in planes uncomfortable. For younger children, feeding with a bottle or breastfeeding can help with the pressure in their ears. Older children can have a snack and swallowing, chewing gum, or even a lollipop can equalize pressure and soothe any discomfort. You can also encourage your child to yawn or stretch their mouth wide open to help ease their ears.
The Gardner School Loves Partnering with Parents
We’re proud to partner with parents, supporting them as they provide their children with new experiences that will shape their perspectives and futures. Our blog provides inspiration and helpful tips so that you can get the most out of those experiences. Want to learn more? Take a look at our blog page for tips on so many topics, including: travel, book recommendations, and kindergarten preparation.
Interested in enrolling your child at The Gardner School location in your area? Reach out to schedule a tour! We’re always here to answer your questions.