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Go: Toddlers on a Plane

View from the plane window

What scares you more, snakes on a plane or toddlers on a plane?

If you’ve ever been the unfortunate seatmate to a child in the throes of an ill-timed tantrum, the recipient of firm kicks to the back your seat, or are just one of those types of humans who get annoyed by a child reciting the alphabet, you know the trepidation I feel in actually taking my own kids on their first plane trip.

Granted, I know I can’t make everyone happy. I know that my kids listen fairly well and we don’t let them walk all over us. They are two and three years old, though. They do occasionally cause scenes when we’re out and about. Whether it’s at the hardware store, market, or a restaurant, sometimes they act up. We remove them from these situations. They’re well aware they’re not allowed to act like that but … they’re young kids. Sometimes they just do.

Sometimes Lotus cries

I’d like to submit to you that there are plenty of adults who also have temper tantrums but somehow they’re generally viewed as more acceptable to the masses than an inconsolable youngster.

Doesn’t make much sense to me, but whatever.

I’ve been preparing the kids so they know what to expect during the flight experience. They will each have their own backpack with activities, snacks, their lovies, and something to drink. We’re hoping that they’ll take pride in carrying their own bag and being responsible for their own stuff.

We decided that Asher won’t be allowed to play games on our phones because he often throws a tantrum when he’s told it’s time to put it away. No sense setting him up for an upset when we prepare for landing.

I wouldn’t say I’m feeling stressed about the flights, because I’m not. I do know that sometimes I have a bit of trouble with just going with the flow. I have expectations and can sometimes be too rigid in those expectations, making it difficult to roll with the punches. I’m determined to make the very best of it, no matter what situations arise. Because honestly? There is no better way to teach my kids to be laid back than by being relaxed myself.

Reality tells me that it’s likely my kids will fuss at one point or another, whether from being tired, bored, or scared. I hereby announce to the world that we do the best we can and if you’re offended by my kids or how we handle the situation, I’m not going to make excuses. Just because they’re children doesn’t mean they’re second-class citizens. Just because they’re young doesn’t mean we should find alternate means of transportation. Just like I have to make the best of sitting next to a perpetual sniffler or someone who forgot to wear deodorant for the past three years, you’re going to have to make the best of sitting next to us. I won’t keep my kids from experiencing new situations or wonders because they may possibly offend someone.

Are you a veteran family traveler? What tips and tricks did you use when traveling with toddlers?
Twitt