toddler toys for air travel image
Phenomenal
I have a forward facing Car Seat for a toddler, does anyone know if I can use it on the plane and where do I have to sit order to use it. Also does anyone know if they sell straps or something to wear the car seat on my back like a book bag or anything to make it convenient to carry it around.
Answer
Car seats are a very good thing to use for air travel! They help to ensure the safety of your child and make the trip easier for both of you. You can use the car seat in any portion of the plane, except for an exit row (for safety reasons).
In order to be certified for use on an airplane, the car seat has to met the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Check the labels on the side of your car restraint for a sticker (words will be printed in red) for verification that your seat is safe for airplane use.
Booster seats are not allowed or approved for air travel.
Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device. You should call your airline to ask for a discount and/or ask what the airline's policy is for using empty seats.
Target, Babies R US, and other retailers sell many varieties of things to hold car seats in to make transportation of them easier on the parents. Prices range from $20 on up to almost $100. Make sure that you get one you are comfortable with and that will last.
I've been flying internationally and domestically with my children since they were 2 months (now 7&5). Here are some tips and advice that have always worked for me and I hope will help you:
1.) You will need to have all your child's documents in order. It is a good idea to keep a copy of his/her notarized birth certificate with you. Verify what travel documents you will need in advance to make sure you have everything.
2.) For take-offs and landings, the best thing you can do to help with the ear popping, is give your child a something to drink (milk, water, juice- it doesn't matter) or a pacifier.
New regulations allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz, -OR- beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food and non-perishable items such as cheerios, dried fruit, goldfish, just add water packets, etc, onto the plane with you. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#10
Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the Flight Attendants will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.
Another trick is that if your child is not taking to the pacifier or wanting to drink, gently rub his/her neck from the chin down to the chest several times - this will cause a swallowing motion which will help with the ears popping.
3.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child, such as a few books or toys, a portable DVD player with at least one movie, and one or two comfort things such as a favorite blankie or stuffed animal.
You might also consider going to the store and letting your child pick out his/her own carry on bag and a few inexpensive toys that will be used only once on the plane. Be sure to pick out a few toys without your child seeing so that he/she has an extra surprise when he/she opens his/her carry on.
4.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case he/she gets sick, spills something on him/herself, or in case your luggage gets lost.
5.) Keep your diaper bag well stocked with plenty of diapers, wipes, ointments and other essential things. Baby nail clippers and scissors are not allowed though. Just remember the new regulating liquids, gels, and such and pack accordingly. You can usually find travel size baby products in stores and they are wonderful for plane use.
If your child is still in diapers, you should be respectful of other passengers and always change your child's diaper in the restroom. They do have diaper bed changers in there, although they can be a little small.
6.) Keep your doctors name and number with you. Also get the name and number of a doctor where you are visiting in case an emergency should come up.
It is a good idea to have a check-up with your doctor before leaving to make sure your child is healthy enough to fly. If he/she has even a slight cold, the pressure in his/her ears during take-off and landing (even if you do the precaution methods) could leave his/her ears aching for days after the flight.
Most doctors recommend that if anyone is sick (such as being stuffed up or already having an earache), not to take the flight because of the potential damage to the ears. I know my husband and other pilots do not work if they are sick because of this danger.
7.) Bring any medications that you might need for your child should he/she get sick or that he takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.
Do NOT give your child medicine with the hopes of it making him/her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.
8.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.
If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Car seats are a very good thing to use for air travel! They help to ensure the safety of your child and make the trip easier for both of you. You can use the car seat in any portion of the plane, except for an exit row (for safety reasons).
In order to be certified for use on an airplane, the car seat has to met the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Check the labels on the side of your car restraint for a sticker (words will be printed in red) for verification that your seat is safe for airplane use.
Booster seats are not allowed or approved for air travel.
Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device. You should call your airline to ask for a discount and/or ask what the airline's policy is for using empty seats.
Target, Babies R US, and other retailers sell many varieties of things to hold car seats in to make transportation of them easier on the parents. Prices range from $20 on up to almost $100. Make sure that you get one you are comfortable with and that will last.
I've been flying internationally and domestically with my children since they were 2 months (now 7&5). Here are some tips and advice that have always worked for me and I hope will help you:
1.) You will need to have all your child's documents in order. It is a good idea to keep a copy of his/her notarized birth certificate with you. Verify what travel documents you will need in advance to make sure you have everything.
2.) For take-offs and landings, the best thing you can do to help with the ear popping, is give your child a something to drink (milk, water, juice- it doesn't matter) or a pacifier.
New regulations allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz, -OR- beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food and non-perishable items such as cheerios, dried fruit, goldfish, just add water packets, etc, onto the plane with you. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#10
Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the Flight Attendants will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.
Another trick is that if your child is not taking to the pacifier or wanting to drink, gently rub his/her neck from the chin down to the chest several times - this will cause a swallowing motion which will help with the ears popping.
3.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child, such as a few books or toys, a portable DVD player with at least one movie, and one or two comfort things such as a favorite blankie or stuffed animal.
You might also consider going to the store and letting your child pick out his/her own carry on bag and a few inexpensive toys that will be used only once on the plane. Be sure to pick out a few toys without your child seeing so that he/she has an extra surprise when he/she opens his/her carry on.
4.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case he/she gets sick, spills something on him/herself, or in case your luggage gets lost.
5.) Keep your diaper bag well stocked with plenty of diapers, wipes, ointments and other essential things. Baby nail clippers and scissors are not allowed though. Just remember the new regulating liquids, gels, and such and pack accordingly. You can usually find travel size baby products in stores and they are wonderful for plane use.
If your child is still in diapers, you should be respectful of other passengers and always change your child's diaper in the restroom. They do have diaper bed changers in there, although they can be a little small.
6.) Keep your doctors name and number with you. Also get the name and number of a doctor where you are visiting in case an emergency should come up.
It is a good idea to have a check-up with your doctor before leaving to make sure your child is healthy enough to fly. If he/she has even a slight cold, the pressure in his/her ears during take-off and landing (even if you do the precaution methods) could leave his/her ears aching for days after the flight.
Most doctors recommend that if anyone is sick (such as being stuffed up or already having an earache), not to take the flight because of the potential damage to the ears. I know my husband and other pilots do not work if they are sick because of this danger.
7.) Bring any medications that you might need for your child should he/she get sick or that he takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.
Do NOT give your child medicine with the hopes of it making him/her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.
8.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.
If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Any suggestions on flying with a 13 month old?
Snow
I am going to be flying overseas with our 13 month old. It is a ten hour flight and our 13 month old has hit the screaming stage...you know when he gets excited or mad or whatever. Any suggestions on keeping him quiet and occupied? Thanks for the suggestions.
To the person who doesn't know why we would fly with a 13 month old...my husband is military and we are flying home to see family. That's what happens when you are in the military.
Answer
I'm a former Flight Attendant and I fly a lot with my children, transatlantics and other flights.
This can be a tough age, especially if your little guy can run. Communication is limited and they can't really understand what's going on (why they have to stay seated or wait, or whatever). Most other passengers understand this and will not complain if they see you are trying to attend to your little one's needs.
I do recommend that he have his own seat and that you bring his carseat along. This is the only way to fly safely with any baby. If you're military, they usually pay for a seat for each member of the family.
Check with the airline you're flying. If it's a U.S. company, which you probably are, since you're military, this is the relevant page;
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/
If, for whatever reason, you haven't booked a seat for him, call the airline and see if the flight is full. Then, at check in, ask nicely if you can have an empty seat next to you to place your carseat in. They often do this for families.
I will say that my toddlers were much more settled and much easier when they were in their familar seat. I will admit that I've strapped down an unhappy little one more than once. Toddlers hate to be confined and simply don't understand that they have to be seated sometimes. Firmly anchored in, I could then consol them while we landed.
To get through the airport, there is no need to carry a car seat. There are all sorts of gizmos sold like these;
http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html
http://www.amazon.com/Traveling-Toddler-Attach-Rolling-Carry/dp/B000JHN3AS
http://www.onestepahead.com/product/osa/363756.html
I simply use a small metal luggage cart with an extra bungee cord and it works great. I skip on the stroller and she can even ride in it. She usually prefers to walk and then I load the carry-ons abord.
Besides, taking your car seat onboard virtually guarentees that it'll be there at your destination. Checking them risks damage and loss. Wont you need it when you get there?
For entertainment, get her a new toy, anything, and it doesn't have to be expensive. Keep it and give it to him once you're on the plane. I found that stickers, coloring stuff and books were better at occupying them at this age. No one will mind if you read to him.
I actually don't recommend a portable DVD player *unless* he can watch it without sound. I doubt he'll wear the headphones at this age but you can try it at home. If you opt to bring it, make sure it either has a battery life of at least 5 hours or you have a second battery. Bring the recharger in your carry-on and any adapter you need in case of a delay.
Just some other small tips;
-Bring at least one change of clothes
-Bring way more diapers than you think you'll need
-Learn to change him standing up (don't try to fit him on one of those tiny babychangers and toddlers hate to lie down in strange places)
-Bring an empty sippy cup to fill during the services. This will prevent spills in the air.
-Get up and move around with him but keep an eye out. Those carts the F/A's use are the perfect height for hiding little ones
-Bring snacks. Don't fret security. I've never had anything taken away (yes, water but not snacks) and that's the only risk. If you have something not allowed, they simply remove the item. No scenes, no speeches, no arrests!
-Try to sit in a bulkhead seat so that there's no one in front of you
-Bring slippers, especially if you're not in the bulkhead!
It's actually a myth that children need to suck on something for take-off and landing. I rarely saw problems in my 13 years as a Flight Attendant and I have never, ever done anything special with them for take-offs and landings.
ENT specialists simply recommend that the child is awake for at the top of descent (not landing, which is too late);
http://www.entcda.com/AAOHNSF/earsandaltitude/htm
This is usually 40 minutes to an hour before landing and everyone's ears have to reverse the pressurization.
Please don't wake your son unnecessarily during take-off or landing to force him to drink, and don't make him if he doesn't want to.
Basically, for the whole trip, let him sleep, eat and run when he can. Be Good Parents when you get to your destination but let whatever slide while in transit. Don't keep him up at any stage to make him sleep. I've seen this backfire too many times!
The BEST way to avoid ear issues is to take your little boy to the doctor a few days before flying. My son was good at getting symptomless ear infections. The doctor will look in his ears and make sure they're clear and infection-free. Healthy ears can handle pressurization changes.
For more information, I wrote an article on this subject. It's based on both my personal and professional experience of flying with kids. It's totally non-commercial and other parents have contributed;
http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com
An edited version appeared on the Expat Women website in December;
http://www.expatwomen.com/mothers/flying_with_children.php
All of you get plenty of sleep the night before and have a good flight!
I'm a former Flight Attendant and I fly a lot with my children, transatlantics and other flights.
This can be a tough age, especially if your little guy can run. Communication is limited and they can't really understand what's going on (why they have to stay seated or wait, or whatever). Most other passengers understand this and will not complain if they see you are trying to attend to your little one's needs.
I do recommend that he have his own seat and that you bring his carseat along. This is the only way to fly safely with any baby. If you're military, they usually pay for a seat for each member of the family.
Check with the airline you're flying. If it's a U.S. company, which you probably are, since you're military, this is the relevant page;
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/
If, for whatever reason, you haven't booked a seat for him, call the airline and see if the flight is full. Then, at check in, ask nicely if you can have an empty seat next to you to place your carseat in. They often do this for families.
I will say that my toddlers were much more settled and much easier when they were in their familar seat. I will admit that I've strapped down an unhappy little one more than once. Toddlers hate to be confined and simply don't understand that they have to be seated sometimes. Firmly anchored in, I could then consol them while we landed.
To get through the airport, there is no need to carry a car seat. There are all sorts of gizmos sold like these;
http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html
http://www.amazon.com/Traveling-Toddler-Attach-Rolling-Carry/dp/B000JHN3AS
http://www.onestepahead.com/product/osa/363756.html
I simply use a small metal luggage cart with an extra bungee cord and it works great. I skip on the stroller and she can even ride in it. She usually prefers to walk and then I load the carry-ons abord.
Besides, taking your car seat onboard virtually guarentees that it'll be there at your destination. Checking them risks damage and loss. Wont you need it when you get there?
For entertainment, get her a new toy, anything, and it doesn't have to be expensive. Keep it and give it to him once you're on the plane. I found that stickers, coloring stuff and books were better at occupying them at this age. No one will mind if you read to him.
I actually don't recommend a portable DVD player *unless* he can watch it without sound. I doubt he'll wear the headphones at this age but you can try it at home. If you opt to bring it, make sure it either has a battery life of at least 5 hours or you have a second battery. Bring the recharger in your carry-on and any adapter you need in case of a delay.
Just some other small tips;
-Bring at least one change of clothes
-Bring way more diapers than you think you'll need
-Learn to change him standing up (don't try to fit him on one of those tiny babychangers and toddlers hate to lie down in strange places)
-Bring an empty sippy cup to fill during the services. This will prevent spills in the air.
-Get up and move around with him but keep an eye out. Those carts the F/A's use are the perfect height for hiding little ones
-Bring snacks. Don't fret security. I've never had anything taken away (yes, water but not snacks) and that's the only risk. If you have something not allowed, they simply remove the item. No scenes, no speeches, no arrests!
-Try to sit in a bulkhead seat so that there's no one in front of you
-Bring slippers, especially if you're not in the bulkhead!
It's actually a myth that children need to suck on something for take-off and landing. I rarely saw problems in my 13 years as a Flight Attendant and I have never, ever done anything special with them for take-offs and landings.
ENT specialists simply recommend that the child is awake for at the top of descent (not landing, which is too late);
http://www.entcda.com/AAOHNSF/earsandaltitude/htm
This is usually 40 minutes to an hour before landing and everyone's ears have to reverse the pressurization.
Please don't wake your son unnecessarily during take-off or landing to force him to drink, and don't make him if he doesn't want to.
Basically, for the whole trip, let him sleep, eat and run when he can. Be Good Parents when you get to your destination but let whatever slide while in transit. Don't keep him up at any stage to make him sleep. I've seen this backfire too many times!
The BEST way to avoid ear issues is to take your little boy to the doctor a few days before flying. My son was good at getting symptomless ear infections. The doctor will look in his ears and make sure they're clear and infection-free. Healthy ears can handle pressurization changes.
For more information, I wrote an article on this subject. It's based on both my personal and professional experience of flying with kids. It's totally non-commercial and other parents have contributed;
http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com
An edited version appeared on the Expat Women website in December;
http://www.expatwomen.com/mothers/flying_with_children.php
All of you get plenty of sleep the night before and have a good flight!
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