7 Tips for Keeping Kids Content on a Flight

Tantrums on airplanes by unruly toddlers have recently made headlines. Here are 7 tips to ensure that it doesn't happen to you.

1. Ensure that your child is seated comfortably and securely fastened.

One of the first things you should do after boarding an airplane is make sure that you child is seated comfortably and securely fastened. Once he or she is seated comfortably, secured, and content, then you can go ahead and stowaway your carry-on luggage and secure your own seatbelt.

2. Bring plenty of distractions.

Most parents are very used to bringing distractions for their children, whether that includes games, toys, etc., wherever they go. However, this is even more important when traveling by air. Bringing a few of your child's favorite things from home will help make your child comfortable in a new, sometimes scary environment.

3. Don't rely on the flight crew for food and drink if your child is in need of either.

In addition to bringing toys, games, and other creature comforts for your child, you will also need to bring food and drink for your child. Too many parents rely on flight attendants to provide food and drink for their child on-demand. That simply doesn't work anymore. Once you've gone through security, purchase a couple of drinks and snacks for you and your child. It might mean the difference between a temper-tantrum and a peaceful flight.

4. Explain exactly what is going on throughout the entire experience and even before hand.

Kids want to know what is going on. They may ask why they have to go through security and why they have to stay seated on the airplane. By giving them as much information as is age appropriate, you can help demystify the whole process of flying and help make the experience less scary. These days, it can be scary for adults too. If you let the child know what to expect, they will be less likely to act out due to fear.

5. Reassure your child if it is his or her first flight or he or she has a fear of flying.

If you child is flying for the first time or has a fear of flying, you might want to go out of your way to reassure him or her that it is safe. A little reassurance can go a long way, especially with older children.

6. Give them as much responsibility as is age appropriate.

Children can be a big help when it comes to air travel. They can help carry their own bags and more. Older children can help you read the airport map and help find the gate, not to mention look for anything left behind once you've gone through security. Giving children as much responsibility as you deem age appropriate is a great way to help give the child more control over the experience.

7. Be prepared for just about anything.

Traveling by air these days can be extremely frustrating. By being prepared for anything, you can help ensure that you and your child have a nice flight.