Parents hold their breath from the moment they step on until they step off an airplane when traveling with toddlers. Two-year-olds are wildly unpredictable, and it's easy to imagine a talkative, rambunctious child wreaking havoc on the airplane. While there is no way to predict exactly how a toddler will react to the flying experience, knowing what to expect can make the ride as stress-free as possible.
Tuckered toddlers are a lot easier to handle than those who act like they've just downed a double-shot cappuccino. Arrive early to the airport, get your bags checked and give the toddler some time to expend energy. An airport is like a chocolate factory for curious kids with all the conveyor belts, strange people, uniformed workers and bright signs. Almost all major airports have a kid's play area where your toddler can find some short-lived playmates. This will also give you time to unwind before boarding. If all goes according to plan, you may only hear the silent sounds of sleep while flying.
You don't have to worry about your toddler receiving a pat down from the TSA, but you should be extra organized before removing your shoes. Have all your boarding tickets and identification at the ready before you even step in line. Also make sure everything that goes through screening -- laptops, cell phones and metal objects -- is ready. It also helps to explain or create a game about the security process so it doesn't frighten your toddler.
After clearing security and before boarding the plane, you should eat and use the restroom. A full toddler is less likely to cry, and more likely to sleep during the flight. Airport bathrooms are more like the ones in your home than the bathrooms on airplanes, which you should try to avoid using.
Take-off can be the worst or best part of a flight for toddler. The quiet noise and engine vibrations can induce sleep, but the change in pressure can cause tears. If you toddler isn't asleep during take-off, give her a lollipop or something else to suck on to help reduce ear pressure. Milk will also help the child sleep after the airplane has reached cruising altitude.
Tell your toddler what is appropriate behavior while on an airplane -- no kicking the businessman's seat, but coloring in a book is allowed. You should also bring along silent games for your toddler during flight. Let your child sit near the window as this avoid distractions from passing passengers and flight attendants. Go through your traditional pre-sleep routine like reading a book or changing into pajamas to try to help your toddler sleep.
