Taking kids on plane flights - Why not be the best you can at being prepared

As normal, you have so much to do to get ready for your upcoming vacation. Just remember to also include “preparing for your flight for the benefit of your kids” !

In your planning list, include enough quiet type activities that your child can involve themselves in, to help keep them entertained independently. Such as crayons, color book, playing cards, etc. If you’re flying for many hours, bring lots of variety.

It’s only normal, that they too, get bored in just sitting. If not prepared in occupying their mind, truly, everyone, to include those around you, could turn out miserable ! Don’t forget the older kids too ! You can prepare individual bags, so that those old enough, can take responsible in keeping up with themselves.

Today, snacks and even meals, are very important in planning for your flight, unless you are prepared in paying current airline cost for these items. In advance, pick up chips, crackers, subs, whatever your children may enjoy. When they see others eating, it’s only natural, that they too, will want something. Bring variety, because like us adults, tastes change.   See TSA info below
Hopefully, you have already scheduled your flight, to allow yourself ample time for connections. If you need extra assistance in getting to your next flight, if you haven't already, remember to set this up at check-in.

Be sure to arrive at the airport a little earlier than the airlines expect. You’ll want to be sure you have extra time for checking in, preparing your child for the flight, such as an extra bathroom break before boarding, and for the unexpected.

Here’s an article: 5 ways to keep kids busy during a flight delay or layover.
By Debbie Dubrow, Condé Nast Traveler http://travelkit.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/21/12342637-5-ways-to-keep-kids-busy-during-a-flight-delay-or-layover?lite



Please consider viewing TSA’s tips and screening information, traveling with kids.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/index.shtm

TSA & beverages (found on the TSA site):  After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft.

TSA & food (found on the TSA site):  All food must go through the X-ray machine. Do NOT bring food to the security checkpoint unwrapped, as shown in the image on the right.  Food must be wrapped or in a container. Unpeeled natural foods like fruit are okay, but half-eaten fruits must be wrapped.

TSA & baby formula & breast milk (found on TSA site).  There is no restriction on the amount of baby formula, breast milk, or medicines you can bring, but they must be declared and presented for inspection at the checkpoint.




Delta (found on their site). If children are traveling for free, they don't have a baggage allowance. So any baggage for the child counts as part of the parent's baggage allowance. Please check with your airline.

UsAir.  Pregnancy, children & infants
http://www.usairways.com/en-US/traveltools/specialneeds/children.html

Be sure to check your airlines for specific details in traveling with children.

Continue having a great summer !