Kayla
My daughter is going to be 2 in june. we are taking a flight on May 22nd at around 6pm. I am worried about how she will handle the airplane. I tried to book a later kind of flight so that way she might be sleepy but I dont know... Does anyone have advice on flying with a toddler in a plane. o ya our flight is luckly only 2 hours
Answer
If you are prepared and take a few easy steps, the flight will be a breeze. The idea of getting her to sleep is a good one, though with only a two hour flight, it will be easier than you think. It would be useful to allow her some to run around a bit before boarding. Basically, see if the airport you are departing from has a children's play area, and let her run loose. The goal is to let her wear herself out. You can also try to shorten her nap (but don't skip it, then you will have an overtired, cranky tot).
Here are the things to consider... First is hydration! The air in the cabin comes in from a source on the engine (called "bleed air"). Being from the ambient air outside, it is remarkably dry. It is at most single digits, if that much at all. The problem here is breathing. We lose water normally from sweat, urination, etc; but in an airplane we also loose a lot from just breathing. The moisture comes when we exhale.
Any adult can easily become dehydrated if not taking in adequate water, but for a small child, this is an even greater concern. At two hours, you will be alright, but she will be more cranky if she is tired and thirsty... :)
You will likely have to purchase the water or juice inside the terminal as they do not allow sufficient quantity of liquid through security screening. Also, I do not trust the "tap" water on airplanes, drink only the bottled water...
A bottle or sippy cup, pacifier, teething ring, etc to suck on is also a must. During ascent and descent, the cabin pressure will change and as a result, she may get an ear block. These can be painful, but are relieved by negative pressure in the mouth and throat. If it is really bad, you can try to yawn with her looking at you, the yawn reflex is strong and it often results in equalizing the pressure (ever yawn after watching someone else yawn? or did you just yawn because you've read this?). You can also try gently massaging her forehead, neck, and around her ears if it doesn't clear.
I've flown so many sick kids, I'm pretty good at recognizing the "ear block" before it really becomes an issue; and it during the early onset that it is easiest to treat. Look for her becoming fidgety, reaching for her ear, changes in breathing patterns, etc. Even slight, subtle clues would be enough to try the "yawn reflex", or give her a sippy cup, bottle, etc. The combination of yawning and sucking give enough negative pressure to the ear canals to prevent a true ear block from developing.
If it does develop, it can last for days, so be vigilant here.
Before you go to the airport, check her carseat and make sure there is a sticker on the side attesting to the fact the carseat is certified for air travel. Most are, but not all.
Toys and distractions are also requirements. Nothing big or fancy, just something that might occupy her for twenty or thirty minutes.
Coloring books, toys that beep or vibrate, Be creative, but you don't have to go too crazy either. You can even go so far as setting a small budget for her and letting her pick something out at the airport shop; but remember not to give it to her until you're in the airplane.
Finally, see if you can get a bulkhead row seat. This will give you the opportunity to let her play on the floor area without being able to get away. Just put a blanket down and some toys, and she will have her own play area.
I hope this helps! I'm a flight paramedic and have transported many children. I am also a frequent traveler, including many international destinations. I speak from both a professional medical provider and a frequent flyer. I've seen dozens upon dozens of parents travel with small children, and with a few simple steps, it can be easy and enjoyable for all.
Cheers!
If you are prepared and take a few easy steps, the flight will be a breeze. The idea of getting her to sleep is a good one, though with only a two hour flight, it will be easier than you think. It would be useful to allow her some to run around a bit before boarding. Basically, see if the airport you are departing from has a children's play area, and let her run loose. The goal is to let her wear herself out. You can also try to shorten her nap (but don't skip it, then you will have an overtired, cranky tot).
Here are the things to consider... First is hydration! The air in the cabin comes in from a source on the engine (called "bleed air"). Being from the ambient air outside, it is remarkably dry. It is at most single digits, if that much at all. The problem here is breathing. We lose water normally from sweat, urination, etc; but in an airplane we also loose a lot from just breathing. The moisture comes when we exhale.
Any adult can easily become dehydrated if not taking in adequate water, but for a small child, this is an even greater concern. At two hours, you will be alright, but she will be more cranky if she is tired and thirsty... :)
You will likely have to purchase the water or juice inside the terminal as they do not allow sufficient quantity of liquid through security screening. Also, I do not trust the "tap" water on airplanes, drink only the bottled water...
A bottle or sippy cup, pacifier, teething ring, etc to suck on is also a must. During ascent and descent, the cabin pressure will change and as a result, she may get an ear block. These can be painful, but are relieved by negative pressure in the mouth and throat. If it is really bad, you can try to yawn with her looking at you, the yawn reflex is strong and it often results in equalizing the pressure (ever yawn after watching someone else yawn? or did you just yawn because you've read this?). You can also try gently massaging her forehead, neck, and around her ears if it doesn't clear.
I've flown so many sick kids, I'm pretty good at recognizing the "ear block" before it really becomes an issue; and it during the early onset that it is easiest to treat. Look for her becoming fidgety, reaching for her ear, changes in breathing patterns, etc. Even slight, subtle clues would be enough to try the "yawn reflex", or give her a sippy cup, bottle, etc. The combination of yawning and sucking give enough negative pressure to the ear canals to prevent a true ear block from developing.
If it does develop, it can last for days, so be vigilant here.
Before you go to the airport, check her carseat and make sure there is a sticker on the side attesting to the fact the carseat is certified for air travel. Most are, but not all.
Toys and distractions are also requirements. Nothing big or fancy, just something that might occupy her for twenty or thirty minutes.
Coloring books, toys that beep or vibrate, Be creative, but you don't have to go too crazy either. You can even go so far as setting a small budget for her and letting her pick something out at the airport shop; but remember not to give it to her until you're in the airplane.
Finally, see if you can get a bulkhead row seat. This will give you the opportunity to let her play on the floor area without being able to get away. Just put a blanket down and some toys, and she will have her own play area.
I hope this helps! I'm a flight paramedic and have transported many children. I am also a frequent traveler, including many international destinations. I speak from both a professional medical provider and a frequent flyer. I've seen dozens upon dozens of parents travel with small children, and with a few simple steps, it can be easy and enjoyable for all.
Cheers!
Toddlers on a plane?
SmEllY!
Sounds like a horror movie doesnt it hehe. In a month my 21 month old daughter will be going on her first plane trip, it will only last for 2 hours but I am really worried about how she is gonna take it. I don't want her to be scared and upset, she has a VERY high pitched scream and we will be flying with a hundred mine workers and I can only imagine how they will feel about it. Also when I go on a plane nothing I do can relieve the pressure I feel in my head and I am scared that she will have the same problem. How can I keep my daughter happy on a plane trip and keep her from experiencing pain? Also what was your experience of taking a kid on a plane for the first time
?
Answer
I've been flying internationally with my children since they were 2 months (now 8&5). At least three trips a year are the children and I traveling internationally (14+ hours each way) alone, and we do 8-10 other flights (internationally and domestically) as a family each year. Here are some tips and advise that have always worked for me and I hope will work for you too:
1.) Prepare your child on what to expect. Talk to her about the experience before hand. Tell her about what is going to happen when you get to the airport, when you are on the plane, and when you arrive at your destination.
Here is a link to a question I answered about what to expect when flying (also includes information about what to do at the airport) that may help you out a bit:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AqRwTFqrvYN.iAfC_oy6CHPty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20071019044251AA76vkg&show=7#profile-info-t6KmZpK4aa
2.) You will need to have all your child's documents in order. Like I said above, it is a good idea to keep a copy of her notarized birth certificate with you. Verify what travel documents you will need in advance to make sure you have everything.
3.) You can take a stroller and gate check it. This means that you will be able to use it all the way up until the time that you board, and one of the handlers will take it and put it in a special compartment for you. When you exit the plane, it will be waiting for you at the door as well. You can also do this with your car seat if you'd like.
Here's a product that can attach to most car seats so that you can use it as a stroller and get it through the airport more easily. http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html
4.) A car seat is not required for use in an airplane, although it is beneficial. I advise using a CRS (Child Restraint System) because it is safe for the child - especially during turbulence, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, will help your child sleep, and gives both of you the opportunity to relax a bit.
A CRS is a hard-backed child or infant safety seat (Car Seat) that is approved by the government for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft.
In order to be certified for use on an airplane, the car seat has to met the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (most car seats have this). 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.
There is also a new device that is approved by the FAA for airline use ONLY. It is called CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) and costs $75. It weighs 1 pound, is certified for all phases of flight (taxiing, take off, turbulence and landing), adjusts to fit ALL size airplane seats, and is approved for kids 22â44 lbs.
http://www.kidsflysafe.com/
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.
5.) For take-offs and landings (the WHOLE way up, and starting from the BEGINNING, or TOP of descent) -this can be done for both you and her:
The best ways are to alleviate the pressure are to:
*Give her something to drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter)
*Give her hard candy or mints to suck on
*Give her gum to chew
*Tell her to yawn
*Pinch his nostrils shut, have her take a deep breath in through the mouth, then force the air into the back of the nose (gently, but with pressure) as if trying to blow her nose.
*Place hot damp towels (usually like the ones distributed to first and business class before take-off and landing to freshen up with - just ask a flight attendant for them) or paper towels that have been soaked in hot water and wrung out, at the bottom of two paper or styrofoam cups, then hold the cups over the ears.
*Gently but with some pressure, rub her neck repeatedly from the chin to the base of the neck. This will cause a swallowing motion that will relieve pressure build-up in the ears.
You can also try using a decongestant. It is always best to check with your doctor before using any type of medications though, to make sure you are using the one best suited to your childs needs.
6.) Bring Snacks! just add water packets of food, cheerios, goldfish, animal crackers, dried fruit, etc. are great. New regulations also allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz (100ml), -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,yogurt, cheese, puddings, etc. with you also as long as they are in containers less than 3oz (100ml).
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#9
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.
7.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child, such as a few books, toys, a portable DVD player (or a laptop) with a few movies, and one or two comfort things such as a favorite blankie or stuffed animal.
My children like to bring along their own coloring books, a Doodle Pad, their Leap Pads (with a few booklets), and scrap paper that they can make their own drawings with and play games such as tic-tac-toe. My daughter used to like to bring along a doodle bear when she was younger so that she could draw on that as well, and my son likes to bring along some action figures to play with. I found that buying a Rose Art kit from Target (about $5 for the small one and $10 for the large one) is great! It has crayons, markers, coloring books, coloring sheets, and stickers that they can color. It definitely keeps them entertained!
You can also play games like pat-a-cake, or I-spy, and tell stories to your child as well. If you tell a story, try to make it an interactive one where your child has a part in it so she stays interested. This is also a good time to explain things that are happening or going to happen on the plane, and ask questions, such as what do you think the weather is going to be like when we land? etc.
You might also consider going to the store and letting your child pick out 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 her seeing so that she has an extra surprise when she opens her carry on.
Don't be afraid to get up and walk the aisles with your child. This will help to break up the length of the flight and let her stretch her muscles. In fact, this is good for everyone to do.
8.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case she gets sick, spills something on herself, or in case your luggage gets lost.
9.) Keep your diaper bag well stocked with plenty of wipes, ointments and other essential things. Just remember the new law regulating liquids, gels, and such and pack accordingly. http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm You can usually find travel size baby products in stores and they are wonderful for plane use.
10.) 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.
Make sure you have a check-up with your doctor before leaving to make sure your child is healthy enough to fly. If your child has even a slight cold, the pressure in her ears during take-off and landing (even if you do the precaution methods) could leave 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.
11.) Bring any medications that you might need for your child should she get sick or that she takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz (100ml) rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.
http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm
Do NOT give your child medicine with the hopes of it making her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.
12.) Keep your calm. If you get stressed out, your child can pick up on it and it will make the travel that much harder.
13.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.
For more in-depth information, please visit: http://www.angelfire.com/jamiehassen79/flying_children.html
If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.
I've been flying internationally with my children since they were 2 months (now 8&5). At least three trips a year are the children and I traveling internationally (14+ hours each way) alone, and we do 8-10 other flights (internationally and domestically) as a family each year. Here are some tips and advise that have always worked for me and I hope will work for you too:
1.) Prepare your child on what to expect. Talk to her about the experience before hand. Tell her about what is going to happen when you get to the airport, when you are on the plane, and when you arrive at your destination.
Here is a link to a question I answered about what to expect when flying (also includes information about what to do at the airport) that may help you out a bit:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AqRwTFqrvYN.iAfC_oy6CHPty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20071019044251AA76vkg&show=7#profile-info-t6KmZpK4aa
2.) You will need to have all your child's documents in order. Like I said above, it is a good idea to keep a copy of her notarized birth certificate with you. Verify what travel documents you will need in advance to make sure you have everything.
3.) You can take a stroller and gate check it. This means that you will be able to use it all the way up until the time that you board, and one of the handlers will take it and put it in a special compartment for you. When you exit the plane, it will be waiting for you at the door as well. You can also do this with your car seat if you'd like.
Here's a product that can attach to most car seats so that you can use it as a stroller and get it through the airport more easily. http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html
4.) A car seat is not required for use in an airplane, although it is beneficial. I advise using a CRS (Child Restraint System) because it is safe for the child - especially during turbulence, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, will help your child sleep, and gives both of you the opportunity to relax a bit.
A CRS is a hard-backed child or infant safety seat (Car Seat) that is approved by the government for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft.
In order to be certified for use on an airplane, the car seat has to met the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (most car seats have this). 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.
There is also a new device that is approved by the FAA for airline use ONLY. It is called CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) and costs $75. It weighs 1 pound, is certified for all phases of flight (taxiing, take off, turbulence and landing), adjusts to fit ALL size airplane seats, and is approved for kids 22â44 lbs.
http://www.kidsflysafe.com/
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.
5.) For take-offs and landings (the WHOLE way up, and starting from the BEGINNING, or TOP of descent) -this can be done for both you and her:
The best ways are to alleviate the pressure are to:
*Give her something to drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter)
*Give her hard candy or mints to suck on
*Give her gum to chew
*Tell her to yawn
*Pinch his nostrils shut, have her take a deep breath in through the mouth, then force the air into the back of the nose (gently, but with pressure) as if trying to blow her nose.
*Place hot damp towels (usually like the ones distributed to first and business class before take-off and landing to freshen up with - just ask a flight attendant for them) or paper towels that have been soaked in hot water and wrung out, at the bottom of two paper or styrofoam cups, then hold the cups over the ears.
*Gently but with some pressure, rub her neck repeatedly from the chin to the base of the neck. This will cause a swallowing motion that will relieve pressure build-up in the ears.
You can also try using a decongestant. It is always best to check with your doctor before using any type of medications though, to make sure you are using the one best suited to your childs needs.
6.) Bring Snacks! just add water packets of food, cheerios, goldfish, animal crackers, dried fruit, etc. are great. New regulations also allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz (100ml), -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,yogurt, cheese, puddings, etc. with you also as long as they are in containers less than 3oz (100ml).
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#9
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.
7.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child, such as a few books, toys, a portable DVD player (or a laptop) with a few movies, and one or two comfort things such as a favorite blankie or stuffed animal.
My children like to bring along their own coloring books, a Doodle Pad, their Leap Pads (with a few booklets), and scrap paper that they can make their own drawings with and play games such as tic-tac-toe. My daughter used to like to bring along a doodle bear when she was younger so that she could draw on that as well, and my son likes to bring along some action figures to play with. I found that buying a Rose Art kit from Target (about $5 for the small one and $10 for the large one) is great! It has crayons, markers, coloring books, coloring sheets, and stickers that they can color. It definitely keeps them entertained!
You can also play games like pat-a-cake, or I-spy, and tell stories to your child as well. If you tell a story, try to make it an interactive one where your child has a part in it so she stays interested. This is also a good time to explain things that are happening or going to happen on the plane, and ask questions, such as what do you think the weather is going to be like when we land? etc.
You might also consider going to the store and letting your child pick out 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 her seeing so that she has an extra surprise when she opens her carry on.
Don't be afraid to get up and walk the aisles with your child. This will help to break up the length of the flight and let her stretch her muscles. In fact, this is good for everyone to do.
8.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case she gets sick, spills something on herself, or in case your luggage gets lost.
9.) Keep your diaper bag well stocked with plenty of wipes, ointments and other essential things. Just remember the new law regulating liquids, gels, and such and pack accordingly. http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm You can usually find travel size baby products in stores and they are wonderful for plane use.
10.) 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.
Make sure you have a check-up with your doctor before leaving to make sure your child is healthy enough to fly. If your child has even a slight cold, the pressure in her ears during take-off and landing (even if you do the precaution methods) could leave 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.
11.) Bring any medications that you might need for your child should she get sick or that she takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz (100ml) rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.
http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm
Do NOT give your child medicine with the hopes of it making her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.
12.) Keep your calm. If you get stressed out, your child can pick up on it and it will make the travel that much harder.
13.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.
For more in-depth information, please visit: http://www.angelfire.com/jamiehassen79/flying_children.html
If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.
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