Traveling long distances usually means children are required to sit still for an extended period of time. If you have an upcoming flight, you might be thinking of ways to keep the kids entertained until you reach your destination. Try to plan for quiet games that won't disturb the other passengers. Consider providing word games, buying travel board games or bringing a deck of cards to keep the little ones happy during your travels.
Word games are a quiet activity that your child can do on her own without disturbing any of the other passengers. You can purchase books full of word finds or crossword puzzles that will keep your child busy for hours. You can also print off some word games from the Internet or create your own for a more personal touch. Your child will enjoy solving the word puzzles and might also learn something in the process. There are other word games available as well, such as fill-in-the-blank stories that let your child complete a story however she sees fit. Whatever word games are your child's favorite, bring enough to last the whole trip and don't forget pens or pencils.
Manufacturers make special board games that are designed for traveling. The game boards are usually somewhat smaller and the game pieces are magnetic or slightly sticky to prevent losing them if the travels get bumpy. Travel board games are great for keeping the young ones entertained. Of course, parents can play along with the kids as well. Buy a few of your child's favorite board games to take with you on the flight. Make sure to read the game instructions ahead of time so your child can get right to the game without needing to fuss with learning how to play while in the air.
A simple deck of cards can provide hours of entertainment. Depending on the game played, your child can play alone, with a sibling or with the entire family. Easy, kid-friendly games include "War," "Go Fish," "Old Maid" and "Crazy Eights." Children can play "Solitaire" alone and ask parents for hints if they get stuck. Make sure to spend some time at home before the trip to make sure your kids know the rules of the games so they are ready to play once it's time to fly. Don't be surprised if your kids keep themselves entertained by making up their own games to play and want to teach you the rules, too.
