Spring break is just around the corner, and as a mom of 3 kids under the age of 12, I know how challenging traveling can be. Whether you a flying or driving. It's stressful enough packing and preparing for the trip let alone getting the family through the airport without one of them having a complete meltdown. Yes, they feel your stress too! We as parents understand that there are rules of protocol that we must follow in order to have a safe journey, but kids aren't aware of them all. And how should they be if they haven't been taught. So this spring break take a different approach and get the family on the same page. Here are some tips that will make your travels much more enjoyable:
1. Plan ahead and sit your kids down, explain to them what the day will be like in advance. Explain that there may be lots of people around and they need to be courteous of others traveling as well.
2. In an airport, it is especially important that kids don't run around. For their safety and others. Many people are in a hurry and having kids running around just ads to their stress and yours.
3. If there are elevators, make sure your kids do not push all of the buttons. You are sure to get some dirty looks for this.
4. If they need to use the restroom, explain to them that they do not need to announce it to the world. When they get to the restroom make sure they know to wait in line patiently and pick up after themselves.
5. If you are in a terminal waiting for a plane, make room for other people. If you have a backpack full of toys, put it under your seat so others may sit down as well.
6. When boarding with small kids, always try to get on early if possible. Most people understand that kids take some extra effort and need extra time. Have your seating arrangements figured out before you get on the plane. If your family gets separated figure out your game plan before you get on. I have always been lucky with other kind people who are willing to switch seats when the airlines have separated my family. Find a flight attendant as soon as you go on and ask them if they can help you.
7. Boredom is they key factor to your kid's restlessness. Make sure your kids have enough activities to keep them busy on the plane. Pack a backpack with activities for each kid the day before so they have plenty to keep them busy. (My kids particularly like Rand McNally's (Boredom breaker) travel card games. Hours of fun and small enough o carry in a backpack.)
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