It’s summertime
and that means the planes will be full of some happy children, some screaming
children, some bored children, and some entertained children! I’m writing this blog in hopes that
teachers can share these ideas with families of children they teach.
An ounce of
prevention is worth a pound of cure when you travel with children. And if you’ll read these tips, I bet
your fellow passengers will thank you for being on top of the game! Take advantage of the one-on-one time
with your child by giving them 100% of your attention. After all, isn’t that what children
want most from adults?
Planning Ahead
Several days
before the trip start talking about your adventure and give details about what
is going to happen. Have children
close their eyes as you describe the trip – checking in at the airport - going through security - waiting for your flight to be called –
getting on the plane and fastening your seatbelt – taking off – looking out the
window – landing – how much fun you’ll have on your vacation, etc. Explain that there are many other
people who will be sharing a small space on the plane and that everyone needs
to be respectful and use their best manners and quiet voices. The pilots and flight attendants are
there to keep everybody safe, so you will have to listen carefully to them.
Packing
Let your child
pack a bag full of special objects that they want to carry on the plane. (You’ll have to give some guidelines
for this so they don’t try and bring their entire collection of stuffed animals.) A few books, a tablet and markers, a
card game, a bedtime buddy or blanket, and some healthy snacks should do the
trick. You might also suggest a
change of clothes, tissues, and bandaids in case of emergencies.
Note! I did not suggest a computer or
IPad. Parents, you can pack this
in your bag and save it for emergencies.
Too often children play with these while waiting for their flights to
take off and then they are bored by the time they get on the plane.
Waiting
After going
through security, walk around and look out the windows at the other
planes. Look at all the passengers
and guess where they might be going.
Talk about special things that your child hopes to do on the trip. If the flight is delayed you can
play “I Spy,” “Tic Tac Toe,” “Hangman” or another quiet game. Oh, and don’t forget a last minute stop
in the restroom!
Taking Off
When boarding a
plane, you’ll find most pilots enthusiastic about meeting children and letting
them take a “peek” inside the cockpit.
Can your child find her own seat?
Once seated, encourage your child to explore her space. (It’s fine to open and shut the window
shade a few times, look in the seat pocket, talk about the airsick bag,
etc.) Playing with the flight
attendant call button is NOT ALLOWED!
When the boarding door has closed, then everyone must buckle up!
Up in the Air
Once you are in
the air, it’s time to open the backpack and read some books, play a game, draw
some pictures, or eat a snack. Too
often children have gone through their bag of tricks before they get in the air
and are bored. If a beverage
is served, show your child how to put down their tray and discuss their
selection. Keep on talking and
engaging your child.
O.K. Now, it’s time to get out the iPad or
computer and watch a movie. Wait
until the last possible moment to do this. This is like the 8th inning stretch on the
plane. (I might also recommend a
bag of M & M’s – for emergencies only!) Before you know it you will hear those magic words, “Please
fasten your seatbelts. We will be
landing shortly.”
Remember, YOU are
the parent and you are directing this event. With a happy, positive, attitude you’ll have a great flight
and the other passengers will as well!
How many opportunities do you have to give your child 100% of your
attention? That may be the best
part of your trip!
Wishing you happy
travels!
