How to Keep Your Toddler Entertained on a Plane

As a parent who has taken flights with my son both as a baby and a toddler, I can categorically state that traveling by plane with a toddler is an entirely different ball park from traveling by plane with a baby.

Our family enjoys taking trips together and taking our son to new locations. But I’ll never forget the first few flights we took with him, which led me to wonder if we should have made the journey in the first place. Many possibilities played out in my thoughts. Will he wriggle around? Will he have a brief tantrum? Will he never stop talking? Fortunately, as he has aged and taken more flights, those circumstances have started to diminish.

If you’re about to embark on a plane ride with you toddler for the first time and you’re beginning to feel nervous, don’t fret! With a little bit of preparation, you can keep your toddler amused and occupied on the flight.

1. Pack a variety of activities: Bring a bag filled with different activities and toys that your toddler enjoys. This can include coloring books, stickers, small puzzles, picture books, and quiet toys. Choose items that are compact and lightweight for easy transport.
2. Interactive books and electronic devices: Interactive books with buttons, flaps, or textures can engage your toddler’s attention. Additionally, consider bringing a tablet or smartphone loaded with age-appropriate apps, games, or videos. Remember to bring child-friendly headphones and ensure any devices are fully charged or bring a portable charger.
3. Snacks and treats: Pack a variety of snacks that your toddler loves. Opt for healthy options like fruit slices, cheese, or crackers, but also include some special treats to make the experience more exciting. Snacks can be a good distraction during takeoff, landing, or turbulence when children need to stay seated.
4. Create a busy bag: Prepare a busy bag filled with surprises to unveil during the flight. Wrap small toys or activities individually, and let your toddler unwrap them one at a time. This creates a sense of anticipation and novelty, helping to hold their attention for longer.
5. Bring comfort items: Don’t forget to pack your toddler’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or pacifier. Having familiar items from home can provide comfort and security during the flight.
6. Sing songs and tell stories: Engage your toddler by singing their favorite songs or telling them stories. You can also bring a small collection of their favorite books to read aloud.
7. Seat-back pocket surprises: Prior to the flight, prepare small surprises and tuck them into the seat-back pocket in front of your toddler. These surprises can be small toys, snacks, or activity sheets. Pull them out one by one during the flight to keep your child entertained.
8. Stretch breaks: Toddlers have a lot of energy, so it’s a good idea to take short breaks during the flight to let them stretch and move around a bit. You can walk up and down the aisle or find an empty area where they can stand or sit on your lap.
9. Engage with the flight experience: Talk to your toddler about the airplane, the clouds, and the view outside. Explain what is happening during takeoff, landing, and turbulence to help them understand and feel more involved.
10. Stay calm and relaxed: Children can pick up on their parents’ stress and anxiety, so try to remain calm and relaxed throughout the flight. A calm and positive demeanor will help create a more enjoyable experience for your toddler.

Remember that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be flexible and willing to adapt your strategies based on your toddler’s needs and preferences. With some planning and a bit of creativity, you can make the plane journey an engaging and enjoyable experience for your little one.