by Bonnie Christiano

Created on: June 29, 2010

With air travel becoming more common and more convenient, more and more families use this method of transportation to get from point A to point B.  At some point, you will inevitably find yourself on a flight with young children.  Whether you are a fellow passenger or the parent of a child on an airplane, the experience can be somewhat stressful.  So how do you deal with a crying child on an airplane?

As the parent, the best way to combat the helpless cries of a baby is to understand what might lead to a meltdown and be prepared.  A baby on a plane will cry for numerous reasons.  The strange surroundings can trigger anxiety and the sobbing that goes along with it.  Bring familiar items that will comfort your baby.  A blanket or a favorite stuffed animal can make all the difference.  Once the flight is stable, you can even hold the baby on your lap in your comforting arms. 

The loud noises and sounds of the massive engines can also be unnerving to such small ears.  There are ear plugs specifically designed for infant and toddler ears which can be used to block out some of the loudness.  Muffling the noises can ease the intensity of the unfamiliar racket. 

The air pressure can also cause distress in a young child.  They can’t chew gum and don’t understand that yawning may relieve the pressure in their ears.  And they can’t tell us when the problem is that their ears aren’t popping.  Sucking motions can greatly relieve the pressure so a pacifier might do the trick.  If your child doesn’t take a pacifier, a bottle or a sippy cup may be a good alternative. 

Hunger and dehydration can also prompt an outburst, whether on an airplane or not.  Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and fluids.  Don’t wait for the food and beverage cart to make an appearance.  By the time the flight attendants wheel it out, it may be too late. 

Some kids cry out of sheer boredom.  Providing activities or distractions can be a great help.  When I brought my son onto an airplane for the first time when he was just over a year old, I was armed with a bag full of toys and a laptop with DVDs. 

If you are a passenger that is subjected to a flight with a crying baby, there is really not much you can do.  My advice is to remember that the parents of the child are probably much more stressed by the fact that their baby is the one causing the commotion.  Give them a break.  Throw some earplugs in or headphones on, close your eyes, and relax. 

Keep in mind that not all babies have a difficult time on flights.  Some are actually soothed by the hum and vibration of the plane.  But babies are unpredictable.  They can be fine one minute and a blubbering mess the next.  Just understand that it can happen and be prepared.

Learn more about this author, Bonnie Christiano.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.