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When you fly with your kids, packing thoughtfully is essential if you want to have a peaceful trip. We all know that kids are full of energy, and getting them to sit still for long periods can be challenging. Without the right distractions, a flight can quickly become stressful for you, your child, and other passengers.
To avoid any mid-air meltdowns, it's crucial to have a variety of airplane activities ready to keep your children engaged. These activities will not only make the journey smoother for you but also more enjoyable for your child. In this article, I’ll share some tried-and-true tips that have worked wonders for me when flying with kids.
Whether you’re on a short hop or a long-haul flight, planning how to keep your kids entertained is key. Below are some steps that have helped me keep my little ones happy and occupied during flights.
One of the simplest yet most effective tools is a coloring book and crayons. I’ve found that no matter the age, kids can lose themselves in drawing and coloring. When my child starts getting antsy or uncomfortable, I hand over a coloring kit, and it’s amazing how quickly they become an in-flight artist.
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Before our trips, I usually let my kids choose a few of their favorite toys to bring along. But here’s the trick: I always pack a new toy that they don’t know about. When they start getting restless mid-flight, I pull out the surprise. The excitement of a new toy can keep them entertained far longer than their usual playthings. Trust me, this one works like a charm!
If you’re traveling with toddlers, check out these additional tips for flying with toddlers for more ideas on keeping them engaged.
If your child is curious about the world around them, giving them the window seat can be a game-changer. I’ve watched my kids’ eyes light up as they gaze out at the clouds, point out landmarks, or spot another plane in the distance. It’s a simple pleasure that can captivate them for a surprisingly long time. But be warned, once they get hooked, you might lose your window seat on future flights!
VIDEO:Traveling with a toddler can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be! I recently stumbled upon this fantastic video that offers ten creative and practical ideas to keep your little one entertained during flights. From engaging toys and books to the lifesaving tablet and comforting blankets, these tips have made my travels so much smoother. I was particularly impressed with the idea of having "flight-only" toys, which made my child look forward to our trips. If you're gearing up for a flight with your toddler, this video is a must-watch for stress-free travel. Check it out below!
Magnetic games like checkers, tic-tac-toe, and chess are fantastic for in-flight entertainment. The pieces stick to the board, so there’s no risk of losing them in the tight airplane space. I’ve played these games with my kids on flights, and they can keep us all engaged for hours. Plus, letting them win most of the time keeps their spirits high and makes the game more enjoyable for everyone.
Bringing along some of your child’s favorite storybooks is always a good idea. On our flights, I’ll read to my kids, and sometimes we’ll even take turns reading. Comic books are especially great for younger children. I like to pack a mix of books and only bring out one at a time to keep the kids occupied throughout the journey.
If you’re traveling with younger children or infants, make sure you’re familiar with flying with infants so you’re fully prepared.
Card games have become a go-to activity on our flights. They’re compact, easy to carry, and can be played for extended periods. I usually pack a couple of our favorite card games, and we often end up playing multiple rounds. To make it more interesting, we keep score to see who wins the most games. It’s a fun way to pass the time and keeps the kids focused.
For more tips on what to pack, here are some carry-on tips for your kids.
One of the best ways to keep your child engaged is to encourage them to interact with the cabin crew. I always ask my kids to greet the flight attendants and thank them for their service. Sometimes, if the crew isn’t too busy, they’ll even chat with my kids or show them something interesting. It’s a great way to make the flight more exciting and helps build their social skills.
Handing my kids a camera has been a lifesaver on many flights. They love capturing the view outside the window, and it keeps them busy for a long time. I make sure to bring a memory card with plenty of storage because once they get started, they’ll want to take pictures of everything! This simple activity turns the flight into a fun photography adventure.
Never underestimate the power of snacks. I always pack a variety of my kids’ favorite snacks, which not only keeps them happy but also occupies them for a while. When kids are well-fed, they’re usually much more content, which makes the flight easier for everyone. I opt for healthy snacks that they love at home, and it works every time.
If your flight offers Wi-Fi, letting your kids play online games can be a great way to keep them entertained. On flights where my kids are allowed to use electronic devices, I make sure everything is fully charged before we board. Having access to their favorite games can make the flight feel a lot shorter, and it’s a surefire way to keep them engaged.
For more strategies on making the flight smooth, consider how to make layovers with kids less boring.
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