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Prepare Kids in Advance |
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Label Young Children
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As I’m sure you know, it is not uncommon to spend an hour or more standing in line waiting to check in for a flight, to clear customs or to pass through security. These are stressful situations when you have all the time in the world. If you are pressed for time, they can be downright unbearable. Save yourself a lot of stress by allowing plenty of extra time for checking in and getting where you need to be.
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Encourage Movement and Exploration
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Look for Opportunities to Move
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I recommend talking with a steward/stewardess once you’re on board. Ask for his/her advice about moving about the cabin during the flight. Find out when is the best time to get up and stretch, and where you can allow your child to walk without disturbing others.
Moving about during air travel is important for adults as well as children, especially on long flights. Remaining seated for long periods of time can cause blood clots to form. This happened to my husband once after back to back 14 hour flights. The doctor told us that on an average flight 2-3 people will develop blood clots; it’s a very common occurrence and can be life-threatening. |
Ask for What You Need
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Pack for Comfort
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Check for Contraband
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Use Backpacks as Carry-ons
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Pack Old Favorites and New Surprises
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Make the Most of the Experience
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Air travel is an adventure. It’s truly an amazing feat of technology, and it opens up a world of possibilities that would otherwise be beyond the reach of most people. Try to embrace the wonder of it all from your child’s perspective. Make it a learning experience. Talk about the things you see on the ground. Talk about cloud formations and land formations and air currents and anything else that your child shows an interest in. Enjoy learning together.
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