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On an Airplane with a 9- to 18-Month-Old

Taming Toddler Turbulence

By Alexandria Powell

Pages:  1  2  3  4  

  • A change of clothes for both of you.
  • Entertainment – Bring along a variety of toys and "fun stuff," but choose with care (think small, self-contained and quiet). Try wrapping toys in tissue paper – to a toddler, even an old toy is exciting when wrapped like a present. A DVD player loaded with a few of your little one's favorite videos can also be helpful (don't forget the headphones). Finally, don't forget your child's favorite book (at this age she's likely to enjoy hearing the story over and over). In a pinch, even magazines can be entertaining for toddlers when you look at the pictures together.
  • A blanket or sweater.
  • If your toddler has a security item or uses a pacifier, be sure to bring it along, Nelson says.
  • Any medications your child may need during the flight. Be sure to check current TSA rules regarding medications before your flight.
  • And even though it's more expensive, you'll almost certainly have a better trip if you book a separate seat for your child and bring along her child safety seat. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) currently allows children under age 2 to be held on an adult's lap during the flight, most experts – including the American Academy of Pediatrics – recommend the use of child safety seats.

    "Not only are they much safer in turbulent skies, but kids in car seats are better behaved," Ogintz says. "It's because they are sitting on a familiar seat – not squirming all over the place on Mom or Dad's lap."

    For best fit on an airplane, the FAA says to ensure that your child's safety seat is no wider than 16 inches across. Also make sure that the seat specifically states that it is "approved for flight."


    Pages:  1  2  3  4  

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