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On an Airplane with a 9- to 18-Month-Old
Taming Toddler Turbulence
By Alexandria Powell
Planning a flight with a 9- to 18-month-old? Toddlers behaving badly on airplanes have inspired a spate of media coverage, and nearly every parent who flies with kids has been the recipient of the occasional dirty look – or worse.
How to deal? Stay focused on your toddler's needs, says Christine Nelson, a communications expert in Minnesota specializing in patience modeling and guidance, and the founder of www.natknows.com. Be prepared for challenges, keep your toddler as physically comfy as possible (that means a full belly and a dry diaper), and do your best to stay calm and in the moment.
No matter what your plans, prepare the environment and the child will be set up for success, says Lonna Corder, founder and director of The Playgroup in San Francisco, Calif., and a parenting consultant.
Make the trip more kid friendly by bringing the right supplies in your carry-on:
- Diapers and wipes – Bring twice as many diapers as you think you'll need, says Eileen Ogintz, a nationally syndicated family travel columnist and creator of the Web site www.takingthekids.com.
- Re-sealable plastic baggies in a variety of sizes. "Ziploc bags are a lifesaver," says Carrie Conko of Annandale, Va., who has traveled extensively with her son, now 2 1/2. "They are great [for disposing of a] stinky diaper, they hold snacks and they are great for organizing activities."
- Empty sippy cup or bottle.
- A variety of your toddler's favorite healthy snacks, such as crackers, sliced fruit or sandwiches. "On the plane, we do have juice and water, but kids often prefer snacks and drinks they're familiar with," says Simone Sussdorf, American Airlines International Flight Attendant, Chicago O'Hare.
- As of August 2007, U.S. Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) rules allow you to bring "reasonable quantities" (the amount needed for the duration of your flight) of baby formula, breast milk and juice through the security checkpoints and aboard your plane, as long as you are traveling with a baby or toddler. These items are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule, but will be inspected at the security checkpoints.
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