Kids do not like sitting in one spot for very long, especially a plane. They find it difficult to sit that long and are constantly looking for entertainment and little things to keep them busy. Make sure that when traveling with a child by air you come prepared.

Food
Make sure you bring snacks. Healthy snacks that aren't going to wind them up and make the sit more difficult or make their system crash. Think about how long the flight is and keep that in mind when packing snacks. Try to aim for things that aren't sticky or messy like crackers or fruit snacks. Have a couple treats that the kids can have about halfway through the ride if they have been really good. Rewarding them with something yummy helps them want to be good while traveling.

Games
Try not to rely on the movies that the plane offers to keep your child busy. Bring a quiet game or perhaps if available a portable DVD player or electronic game. Paper and a pencil is a great way to kill time with some games of Tic Tac Toe!

Something Comfy
If a child has there favorite blanket or a little pillow and comfortable clothing they are more likely to snuggle in and sleep for a bit of the flight, which is easier on you!

Be Interactive
If you involve yourself in the child while on the flight they are more likely to behave, have fun and won't become so squeamish. Bring things that you can do together. Play games or colour or play "eye spy" which requires nothing except you and the child.

BRING GUM! Kids' ears are very sensitive and tend to pop quite a bit during take off. Bring gum or something that make them salivate and swallow frequently during take off.

Seating
Try to get an aisle seat near the bathroom to make washroom access easy. This also gives you extra room to let them stand up and move without disturbing someone to get in and out. If there are only you and your child traveling try and take the aisle seat and window seat in a three seat section to give yourself the extra room for comfort, space, and possibly toys.

Being Prepared
Make sure that you bring a change of clothes for both of you in your carry on in case luggage gets lost or there is an accident on the plane. Things spill so be ready for it. If you are traveling with a baby or someone who has diabetes or allergies carry extra in case of delays or uncontrolled incidents.

Learn more about this author, Nixie Lynn.
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