There are ways to make the experience as relaxing and entertaining as possible.
If you have some time to prepare for your trip, pack your bag with items to keep your toddler from getting bored and cranky during the flight.
Here’s how to keep your little one entertained or occupied while traveling.
1. Make A Checklist Of Every Item You Plan To Take On Your Trip
This will include clothing, (consider the weather and what kinds of clothing will be appropriate) e.g., pajamas and cardigans, toiletries, and reading materials, like books and magazines for them.
Making a checklist will aid you when packing for the trip back home as you will have a list of everything that you brought with you.
2. Lots Of Snacks That Your Toddler Likes
Keeping your young one full on the plane will help to ensure that they do not get restless and cranky due to hunger.
Pack a good amount of the snacks that your toddler enjoys and give them something to munch on every 1 to 2 hours in transit.
In case you forget to pack snacks, ask the flight attendant if they have any toddler-friendly snacks you could offer your child.
PS: If you still breastfeed or bottle-feed your toddler, then make sure to do so periodically, on the plane.
Offering your toddler breastmilk or a bottle may assist in easing discomfort from their ears popping, and keeping them calm.
Also, it will curb boredom, as it will also take up some time during the flight.
3. Pack A Few Of Your Toddler’s Favorite Books
Reading to your toddler their favourite books can be a great way to keep them occupied and entertained while traveling.
This could also help to distract your toddler if they are feeling uncomfortable or impatient with being on the plane.
It may also help to pack a few new books so your toddler will have something new and exciting to look forward to reading.
4. Create A Goody Bag For Your Toddler To Open On The Plane
Stuff a small bag with a variety of toys, games, colour pencils, stickers, snacks, and other items that your toddler will enjoy. Afterwards, give your toddler the bag on the plane and let them unpack it!
They will have a swell time taking all of the new items out of the bag and they can choose what they like to keep them occupied.
6. Download An App Or Some Videos Onto Your Tablet Or Phone
Although, you might not usually let your toddler watch TV or play tablet games, letting them indulge in some screen time during the flight may be a good way to keep them entertained.
You can download a toddler-friendly show or movie that your child can watch during the flight.
Be open to the possibility that it is unlikely that your toddler will want to watch one show or movie for the entire flight, and ensure that you have plenty of other options for them.
6. Pack Travel Games To Play Together
There are quite a number of travel games you can readily purchase and play with your toddler.
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Get one of those before you board, and ensure you look for games that are appropriate for your child’s age.
Consider getting a simple game, and show your toddler how to play.
Some kids (depending on age and maturity level) may also be able to play basic card games.
Include in your stash, a standard deck of cards and play Go Fish, or get a special card game meant for young children, like Old Maid.
Puzzles and pegboards are also good options for playing with your toddler while traveling.
7. Request A Window Seat And Let Your Toddler Sit In It
You may find that before, during, and after takeoff, your little one may love looking at the views outside of the plane.
So, if the option is available, request a window seat and let your toddler sit there.
Direct their attention to the window when they are readying the plane for takeoff, point to them, the ground whizzing by as the plane speeds up, and then let them enjoy the view as the plane glides over the clouds.
If you are traveling with your toddler’s car seat on board, that will give them an even better view out the window.
8. Pack Earplugs
consider including an earplug in your travel bag as your toddler may feel uncomfortable due to a change in the air pressure while flying.
If he/she is suffering from a cold or ear infection, the pressure may cause pain and make them uncomfortable.
But carrying a suitable earplug along with you helps to avoid this problem.
You can also ask your youngster to do a breathing exercise during the ascent and descent of the aircraft.
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