have you heard the quote “there’s joy in the journey”? Whoever said that probably wasn’t thinking about flying with kids. Don’t worry, though! I’ve got the best airplane activities for toddlers in this post. There WILL be joy in your next journey.
Vacation time is almost here. Planning your trip from beginning to end, including how to keep your toddler busy on the plane, is essential. Create memories and give opportunities for play and engagement rather than dreading the plane ride.
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Prepare Your Toddlers for Flying
If you have time before your flight, explain to your child what to expect. Narrating an airport experience helps them know what is normal and not normal once they are in the situation.
If your child is sensitive to sounds, lights, or crowds, it is important to make them aware of all the stimuli in an airport. Watch a YouTube video of the exact airports you’ll travel through to give them an idea of the atmosphere.
Use airport sticker books and airport books to show children what they can expect. The TSA Kids Website also has activities and a video to help prepare them.
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Airplane Games for Toddlers
Once you’re on the plane, help your child get situated. Give them time to look around, check out the bathroom if possible, and to say high to the flight staff. Save your plane activities until your toddler is giving signs that they need them.
Go over expectations with your child. Show them the seatbelt sign and what that means. Show them how the tray tables work. Show and explain how to sit respectfully on the plane.
This doesn’t mean your toddler is going to be a perfect little angel on the plane. I’ve found, though, that if I explain how things work and go over expectations it gives us a much better journey.
Once your child has gotten over the initial excitement, it’s time to break out the best airplane games for toddlers.
Tell Stories with Finger Puppets
Bring along a picture book and take turns telling a story using the pictures as inspiration. If you’re short on space, use pictures from your phone that your child can re-enact.
I-Spy and Scavenger Hunts
Create a list of items or colors for your toddler to spot on the plane. You can also make this into a Bingo set. I-Spy games are great for getting kids to explore their surroundings.
Wax Sticks or Pipecleaners
The options are endless with bendable sticks. The wax sticks are nice because they actually stick to the tray table. Kids can bend them and mold them into any shapes they want. Pipecleaners are lightweight and cheap.
Busy Boards
Keep your toddler’s little hands busy with interactive boards. Often these have latches, stitches, textures for the kids to feel and play with. it’s great for their fine motor skills, too.
Mess Free Markers
I don’t know what kind of technology is in Mess Free Markers, but I do know it’s amazing. These markers only color the special coloring book that goes with them. These are great for toddlers on a plane because they can’t get marker stains anywhere.
Magnetic Drawing Board
Speaking of no messes, a small magnetic drawing board is a perfect travel activity for toddlers. They can draw, erase, and create without any mess. My kids always loved showing me their designs and then watching them disappear slowly.
Travel Toys
Small fidget toys can be useful for distraction. I recommend you use soft toys in case your kid accidentally flings it across the aisle.
Coloring Books and Crayons
One of the best travel activities for older toddlers is coloring books and crayons. I usually buy a brand new book or print of sheets of their favorite characters so it is more exciting. Use triangular crayons to keep them from rolling off the airplane tray.
Screen Time
We try to limit our screen use on travel days, but if you’re on a longer flight use it as a tool. Most flights have movies, music, or games. I try to alternate doing an activity with my toddler and then doing a little screen time.
Take a Walk
It’s true, you are limited on space in an airplane cabin but that aisle is still pretty big for toddlers. Take them on a walk to the back of the plane. And then to the front. And then to the back. The flight attendants have always been so helpful and kind when we have traveled. Sometimes they give my toddler a small trinket or an extra snack.
More Tips for Great Travel with Toddlers
It can be challenging traveling with toddlers on a plane, but it can be a lot of fun too. Here are a few more tips to help you find that joy in the journey.
- Pack Extra Clothes: Toddlers are known for spills and accidents. Pack extra clothing for your child and even a spare set for yourself in case of any accidents during the flight.
- Bring Comfort Items: A favorite stuffed animal or blanket provide a sense of security. Keep these items on hand to help them feel more comfortable.
- Plan for Sleep: Try to stick to their usual sleep routine as closely as possible. Use eye masks or noise canceling headphones to block out sounds and light if needed (and if your toddler will tolerate it.)
- Stay Calm and Patient: Traveling with toddlers can be challenging. They will get fussy and restless. Do your best to stay calm, patient, and understanding.
- Ask for Help: If you are traveling alone, ask for help when you need it. The flight attendants and even perfect strangers have always been so kind to me when traveling with my kids. Most older women are more than happy to give you a hand. They remember their own days as a young parent.
Following these simple tips will help you enjoy your flight and start your vacation on a happy note. I have been flying with my children since they were very little and have found these tips to be really helpful. Try them for yourself and you’ll find that your journey is happier and more pleasant. You’ll be starting your vacation on a positive note and will be ready for an amazing family adventure!
For more family travel tips try these:
- What To Pack In Your Carry On When Flying With Toddlers
- 5 Family Travel Packing Tips To Take the Angst Out of Doing it All
- Best Family Travel Vacation Destinations to Visit This Year
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