Tips for Keeping Kids Amused on Flights.

This is a topic I get asked about quite often, from parents on the first flight with their children. Usually it comes with a sense of panic and what if. What if they cry all the time? What if they won’t sit still? What if they start shouting? What if they annoy the other passengers? All these things have gone through a parent’s head at some point before taking their precious offspring on a flight. Here is what I advise and tell them.

1. Its ok for a child to cry and pretty much everyone on that plane who is a parent will have experienced that sound at some point.

2. Don't panic and stress about this as your child will invariably pick up on this and it can make the situation much worse.

3. Do reassure them its ok and that nothing can happen to them, as usually they are feeling fear.

4. If you suspect ear pain, try and get your child to suck a dummy, bottle, lolly or something like that to alleviate the pain, failing that I always carry paracetamol sachets in case none of the previous ideas work

5. Plan for the flight by taking a small backpack for the child, ahead of time buy lots of little items, such as cars, small dolls, crayons, mini books etc and wrap these in wrapping paper, every half hour or whatever you deem necessary, pull out an item and let your child unwrap it and play with it. This doesn't have to be a costly exercise, B+M bargains or Home Bargains or supermarkets do little inexpensive items that work well for this. Make sure you child hasn't seen any of them before as it will entertain them more than something they are already familiar with.

6. Snack are important and flight snacks can be expensive so pack some of your own or buy in the airport shop before you board the plane.

7. If your child is of an older age, ask questions. What do you think the hotel will look like? What are you most looking forward to? Any dialogue that will pass some time and keep your child engaged.

8. Games can be lots of fun, remember back to when you were a child, I Spy, with younger child I Spy with colours was always a fun one with my son.

9. Lastly do not be embarrassed if your child plays up and cries or screams, just deal with it calmly and remember it’s not going to be long and you will be off and enjoying your much-needed holidays.

Parenting is not easy and on a flight, it can be harder, but just remember you got this!