My husband will be with me and we will be changing planes in Dallas. 2 one hour flights both ways. Just a little nervous because we drive everywhere and always have all our "gear".
2007-01-12 08:33:09 · 25 answers · asked by ada 2 in Travel ➔ Air Travel
I didn't see anyone-including the pilot's wife-point out that the kids ears will be messed up. That is the other reason to give them dimatapp (sp?), to keep their ears from plugging up. Make sure to have a liquid handy on the ascent and descent as swallowing will aid in clearing their ears. Ear pain is a big part of why kids cry on flights so much.
And don't sit near me, and I am not joking.
2007-01-12 09:04:38 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have something that will keep both children busy, but quiet. Diapers, wipes, juice and such for the baby. A healthy snack for everyone. Be relaxed about the situation as the kids will pick up on tension and they will get cranky. Sounds like a short flight, but when you change planes, if there is time, take the tykes out side of the building just for some fresh air. For the 4 yr old, try a coloring book and crayons, for the tot, a favorite toy and favorite stuffed animal. Hope the trip goes well.
2007-01-12 08:39:52 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Leave for the airport really early!
Bring lots of toys and snacks. You will be able to check your stroller at the gate so don't worry about that. Check with the airlines to find out what you can and cannot bring on board. It seems like it changes everyday.
You may want to ask the pediatrician for some ideas to prevent their ears from popping from the altitude chang. I have been on many flights with children screaming because their ears hurt.
And finally, Count to 10 and take a deep breath. Something will go wrong, it's inevitable. And, I am sure they have stores where you are going if you forgot something.
2007-01-12 08:39:44 · answer #3 · answered by Monica T 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi
I flown a few times with my 3 1/2 and my 2 yr old. Both of them started flying at 9 months old.
Have the 4 yr old take a backpack with a few small toys ie cars....and some coloring books or anything that will keep his attention. He will be interested in looking out the window as well.
Also give them motrin 45 mins before takeoff. It does help with the pain in their ears. My pediatrician recommended this. It works
good luck
2007-01-12 11:53:46 · answer #4 · answered by dedrakaz 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take at least one collapsible stroller which can be gate checked (leave it at the door of the plane getting on and pick up when getting off) this will hold the one year old and all your gear. Take one more sippy, pacifier, several more diapers, and wipes than you need. Take only non-sugary snacks like cheerios. Take blankets as planes get cold and they will like their own better than the airlines.
It is hard to distract kids at the air port so one stuffed animal is about all you will need for toys. A book to read to them if you think they will sit for it is also good. The 4 year old can take his/her stuff in a backpack to leave more room in the stroller. Always make sure one of you acknowledges that they have the kids in view when the other needs to take break (food, bathroom, whatever).
2007-01-12 08:45:58 · answer #5 · answered by Gregory D 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband is an airline pilot. I've traveled many, many times alone w/ my two little boys.
Let the 4yr old take a backpack packed w/ light weight books, coloring books, small toys (cars, action figures) but my kids favorite was small containers of PlayDoh with several tools. I even included a few dishes from a doll set. I'd only pack a couple colors and always made sure to clean up a mess. But it was a hit on every trip!!! My oldest is now 10 and we still take PlayDoh.
As for the 1yr old. Take a car seat if you can ( I always did.) Pack the diaper bag. Take a couple suckers for take-off and landing. It prevents that funny feeling in the ears. Don't forget sippy cups. Flight attendants will be glad to fill them for you. Light weight books. My kids slept most of the time at that age.
Take small snacks. I like to make snack mixes ahead of time and pack them in snack size ziplock bags. Gummies are good too.
My oldest starting flying at 3yrs, my 6 yr old started flying at 5 weeks. They've flown w/ me from MI to Chicago, to Minneapolis, to Pheonix. Security was always nice to us - just get there early and take your time. Don't rush. Let the 4yr old put something onto the conveyor belt and watch it go thru the machine.
I've flown a ton w/ my boys and have had a variety of experiences. When my 5wk old flew, if he wasn't crying, the cat that the lady sitting next to us was. I quickly learned not to be shy about nursing.
They've even flown to Florida w/ out us, but w/ their grandparents. Once me & the boys were stuck in Chicago Midway for many hours due to weather. We had a "picnic" under one of the decorative trees and the youngest even took a nap.
Remember to relax. Kids can sense your anxiety. The airlines are usually pretty good w/ kids and are used to them. If you have any questions or conserns don't be afriad to speak up.
Before you go, check out some books from the library about going thru an airport for the kids to look at. Then when you get to the airport you can point out the things you saw together in the book. It can be a fun experience.
Feel free to email me if you need anything. Good luck!
2007-01-12 08:45:57 · answer #6 · answered by maryquast 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You POOR THING!!!! My husband and I just flew with my 10 month old son...It is not fun, especially with the TSA restrictions on what you can carry on board. Formula and baby food are exceptions but you will still need to be ready to pull them out for TSA.
I did give my infant some infant cold medicine so that he would fall asleep while we were flying. While we were taking off I had a bottle for him and one available if he woke up during the landing. The pressure on the ears is horrible for them. I further did not look forward to diaper changes on a tiny cramped plane...Cross your fingers for no poops!
Your 4 year old may do a little better, but put enough things in your carry on to keep her entertained and pull things out one at a time when she gets bored.
It's not going to be a fun experience for you....but you will survive!
Good Luck!
2007-01-12 08:41:46 · answer #7 · answered by favrd1 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't sit behind me!
Sorry about that. Seriously, in a lot of ways flying with kids is easier than driving because you and husband can focus on them. Bring plenty of games, toys and books (only items that can make it through security...no lawn darts!), and try to get a row to yourselves. Also, some airlines will let you pre-board with kids. If they do, you might want to choose bulkhead seating because it has more leg room.
2007-01-12 08:35:29 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Bring coloring books, or travel games, to occupy your children, or maybe their favorite book, stuffed animal. Or a little snack.
If you have a laptop computer bring that with a dvd they would like.
Nobody likes loud toddlers on a plane.
2007-01-12 08:37:32 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Make sure you have plenty for the kids to do. maybe a portable DVD player or something like that. Bless you for being concerned. I have travelled too many times when the children travelled with their parents and they weren't prepared for the downtime. Good luck!
2007-01-12 08:37:17 · answer #10 · answered by Michael C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋