In a few days, I’m going to get on an airplane with my two and four year old. My son flew when he was nine months old, but for all intents and purposes, they’ve never flown before.
I’m honestly not worried about my son at all. I figure we give him his Super Hero activity book, let him play Angry Birds and eat a few snacks, and he’ll be good to go.
My daughter, on the other hand, has me a wee bit anxious. She’s my loose cannon. I mean, she’s two, so you just never know what mood you’re going to get. And when she can’t do something that she wants to do – WATCH OUT. Home girl can scream like nobody’s business.
I’ve considered buying drink tickets for the people who sit around us.
In all seriousness, I’m doing my best to prep for every situation. Extra clothes in our carry-on in case someone spills or (GOD FORBID!) barfs? Check. New apps on the phone for entertainment? Check. Plenty of snacks? Check.
I think flights are one of those times when you let some of your rules go out the window. My kids don’t get a ton of candy, but you better believe that I’m going to give my daughter one M&M at a time throughout the entire flight if I think it will make her happy and keep her quiet.
My fingers are crossed for a nice, smooth experience, but I’m also going into this completely realistic. It’s going to be stressful. Flying always is. But in the end, we’re going to have an amazing vacation, so I’m going to focus on that instead.
If you have any other tips, I’m all ears!
Caitlin MidAtlantic says
Just don’t do what I did, and pack the favorite fluffy blankie in the checked luggage… for a 6 hour flight… at night…
Nathalie says
For her toddler, a friend of mine wrapped new books or new toys for the flight to add some excitement to the inflight treat. (Have a fabulous time!!!)
Jessica @FoundtheMarbles says
Well, it sure sounds like you’ve done everything you can to prepare. Good luck!
catherine says
you can tell them that if they’re good, they can meet the pilot when you land. not as exciting as getting in the cockpit, sad they can’t do that anymore. but the southwest pilot on one of my flights with jay made a fuss over jay when we deplaned, and thanked the two year old behind us for behaving. the kid was super impressed!
Dresden (@DresdenPlaid) says
can’t wait to hear how the trip went!!
Annie @ Mama Dweeb says
This is a fantastic round up! I’d also add: “pack headphones and a phone/tablet.” cause that helps sooooo much 🙂
Erin L. says
We definitely packed headphones. That plus the iPhone made the flight for my son. We barely heard a peep from him.