Tips for air travel with little ones

November 26, 11:12 AMPhiladelphia Parenting ExaminerJen Orosky

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As the holiday season officially begins and  families take to the skies, parents of little ones brace themselves for hours in the air, hoping for tantrum-less travel. 

American Baby magazine recently asked the flight attendants of various major U.S. airlines their suggestions for traveling parents.  Their ideas?  First, bring blankets, as they've suddenly become a scarce amenity on many planes.  Second, get crafty.  One flight attendant suggested having your child draw a picture for the pilot, or (my personal favorite) make a puppet out of the barf bag.  If you don't think your child will be needing it, of course. 

To help your children clear their ears on descent I would suggest bringing gum for your children who are old enough to chew it.  For infants, sucking on a pacifier, bottle, or sippy cup is often helpful. 

Pack lots of snacks and drinks.  Imagine being delayed on a taxi way, unable to exit the aircraft.  Such delays do happen and you don't want to be the mom or dad with the dismal snack supply.  If you're leery of bringing liquids on board because of the TSA's liquid ban, know that there is a liquid exemption for pumped breast milk, formula, juice, and baby food. 

Don't forget to add extra diapers, wipes, and clothes to your carry-on in the event of a delay or the loss of your luggage.

Bon voyage!