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Have Baby, Will Travel
Week of: August 31, 2008
Remember summer vacation when you were a kid? Trips to Grandma's house or to that special vacation destination. The thrill of that first flight on an airplane. Now it's time to make memories with your own kids! There's no reason to stop traveling just because you have children. It can be daunting (and not just because of the sky-high airfare) but it can also be a special time. It's all in the planning! Here are some tips to keep the skies friendly when flying with little ones.
Perfect your packing. The days of simply throwing a magazine or two in your bag are gone. Traveling with kids means taking time to maximize the minimal carry-on bags you are allowed to bring. Just how many bags you are permitted to bring on board, and how big they can be, varies from airline to airline and even from plane to plane. Check with the airline to see what you can bring to avoid unpleasant surprises. Keep in mind, too, that the larger, rolling bags are a great convenience in the airport, but won't fit under the seat. You don't want to be jumping up to reach into the overhead bin every time you or the kids needs something. Consider instead a backpack..not only will it fit under the seat, but it will keep your hands free in the airport for more important things..like little hands!
It's all about entertainment. Long flights will seem even longer to kids used to being able to move about. Bring along plenty of activities. Books, crayons, and small toys are great. Older kids will enjoy card games and puzzle books. Pack a few surprises to keep things exciting, but remember to bring along a few favorites, too. Snacks can be fun, too. Just be sure not to load kiddo up on sugary treats that will make sitting still even harder.
Invest in a few electronic devices. Portable dvd players and handheld video game systems can be a mother's best friend when traveling. Movies and games are a great distraction and can kill a lot of time during long flights. Even if tv or video game time is limited at home, relax the rules while in the sky. Just make sure to bring along some headphones or to keep the volume turned down. Your in-flight neighbors might not appreciate Pokemon as much as your children do.
Pack a mom bag. Whatever the crisis, moms are ready. This means having plenty of diapers and wipes, for bottoms and sticky hands. A change of clothes for parents and kids can make or break a trip when dealing with those inevitable spills. Remember, too, that flying can be physically uncomfortable. Earplugs, gum, or hard candy can help ease the discomfort of taking off and landing for older kids. Babies should be encouraged to nurse or take a bottle to help ease the pressure. Even with limited space, try to pack for possible emergencies..don't count on the flight attendants to provide what you need. Thirty thousand feet in the air is no place to be caught empty-handed.
Be security line prepared. The key to passing through security is organization! Have a game plan before you even get to the airport. Divvy up the kids and bags and know which adult will be responsible for what. Familiarize yourself with the latest security regulations by visiting www.tsa.gov. Look through your bags and know what you will need to remove and present for inspection. Be especially aware of electronic devices and liquids. (For those traveling with babies, breast milk, formula, and baby food are exempt from the liquids ban. However, they must be declared to the TSA agent.) Know what to expect and prepare your older children. Explain to them what the machines do and why the guards are there. Reassure them, but also remind them that security is important and should be taken seriously. Ask them to stick close and to be patient and on their best behavior. Rewards can help..promise a treat if everyone helps make this part of the journey a smooth process. And, most importantly, allow yourself plenty of time.
Believe it or not, traveling with kids is fun! With a little preparation, it can even be relaxing. Your children can only grow from the experience and will appreciate the memories you make together. And what mom couldn't use a little vacation! Get out there and explore!
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