Sunday, April 6, 2014

Traveling with 1 year old, entertainment?




New Mommy!


I was hoping some of you can give me ideas on how to entertain my 1 year old on a plane.

Our flight is at 7 am and is 3 hours long. This is a looong time for a 1 year old to sit still. What should I pack for him to keep him entertained? Also, what helps with the ears, I know for a little baby feeding them at take off and landing helps ease discomfort?

Thanks in advance!



Answer
Buy new toys and don't let him see then until after you see him start getting aggitated on the plane. Save them until the last possible second lol. Luckily, its only 3 hours and will go by quickly. And light snacks he can munch on. I brought toy cars for my son and it was a 6 hour flight he did very well. Just make sure the toys are new to him.

What's the best way to travel on an airplane with my 1 year old?




Laura


How do you keep such a busy person happy when they can't move around??


Answer
I've been flying internationally with my children since they were 2 months (now 7&5), and here are some tips and advice that have always worked for me:

1.) I advise using a CRS (Child Restraint System) because it is safe for the child, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, and gives you the opportunity to relax a bit.

A CRS is an airline-approved alternative to using a hard-backed seat and is approved for use on aircraft and for use in motor vehicles. Many people confuse it with a regular car seat, which it is not.
http://faa.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=29&p_created=1071174367&p_sid=mn66D6wi&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ9NCZwX3Byb2RzPSZwX2NhdHM9MCZwX3B2PSZwX2N2PSZwX3BhZ2U9MSZwX3NlYXJjaF90ZXh0PWNoaWxk&p_li=&p_topview=1

This website talks about approved CRS devices and their ratings: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/Index.cfm

Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device. Parents should call their airline to ask for a discount and/or ask what the airline's policy is for using empty seats.

Ask your airline if they can provide a CRS for your child. If so, you may not be permitted to bring your own CRS on board, and may need to check it as baggage.
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/

2.) The best time of day to fly is whenever you are comfortable. If you can find a flight that will take off around your child's nap or bedtime, that would be easier, but of course we all know it doesn't always work out that way. The main thing is that you pick a day that you are comfortable with and try to be as relaxed as possible because your son will be able to pick up on any anxiousness or anxiety you might have.

3.) For take-offs and landings, the best thing you can do is if your child is still nursing, make sure to nurse him. If he is not nursing, give him a bottle to drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter) or a pacifier.

Baby formula is fine to take with you, and you are not limited to the amount you can bring aboard with you, do not worry.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/formula.shtm

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 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 stewards/stewardess' 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 neck from the chin down to the chest several times - this will cause a swallowing motion which will help with the ears popping.


4.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child. A few of his favorite toys, books, and any comfort things such as a blankie. The Fa's will also provide you with a toy or coloring book for your son also.

5.)Take your child to the store and buy him a small carry-on bag. Pick out a few new (but inexpensive) toys that will be used only once he is on the plane.

6.) Pack a few instant hot/cold cereals, instant rice, and other just-add-water packets (age appropriate, of course). The stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water upon request. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food and a few other non-perishable snack items. Drinks will be provided free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request.


7.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case he gets sick, spills something on himself, or in case your luggage gets lost. Also bring any medications that you might need for him should he get sick. Do NOT give your child medicine with the hopes of it making him sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.

8.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.


I hope you have a great trip, and if I can be of any more assistance, please feel free to contact me




Powered by Yahoo! Answers

No comments:

Post a Comment