Air travel, kids and young mothers – Don’t fly off the handle!

Mindgame

 By Vandana Mathur, Ph.D*

Remember the days when the airline crew used to serve us some candy as we boarded?

It had been an emotional trip, meeting my almost nonagenarian father after over a year thanks to the pandemic. Technology made it easy to stay in touch via video calls where we had those everyday chit-chats over tea, comparing our Angry Bird and Sudoku scores, discussing a web series, sports or politics. I was on my way back after a week of being with him. It was such a pleasure to ‘be a child’ again and not be ‘in charge’ of anything, ‘get pampered’ by various things including my favourite foods. The whole experience is priceless to say the least. It evoked a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction. As I settled into the middle seat in the aircraft feeling all cramped and sweaty with my mask, face shield and the protective gear, I closed my eyes reminiscing about the last few days, savouring the moments spent together and basking in the happiness within.

As we took off, I was jolted out of my peaceful moment with some yelling and kicking behind me. There was this little girl of about three with impish eyes that I had smiled at when keeping my bag in the storage bin above. She reminded me of my daughter. It made me think of my days of travel with my little ones on board. Those were challenging times, exhausting at some point and frustrating at others. Even with all the books, crayons, games, toys and umpteen walks down the aisle, there were meltdowns and moments of embarrassment.

So, all parents out there whose worst nightmare is to be glared at and detested by fellow passengers on a flight because of your wailing child, here are some small practical tips that I have garnered over time which may come in handy on your next flight with your toddlers. If it’s a long flight, some of my friends prefer a direct one. As for me, I prefer one with a long layover where the kids and me get an opportunity to stretch out, walk around, visit the washrooms and eat some real food. A break like this refreshes us all and we are ready to take on the next lap with ease.

I have found that pre-boarding is a pure blessing. With the baby and all the travel paraphernalia it gives more peaceful time to arrange things and settle down, without having to keep an exasperated co-passenger waiting in the aisle right behind you. We know that flight delays happen all the time, so carrying some extra supplies- diapers, baby food and snacks is a good idea.

Don’t we all like to dress up our little ones like stars? I realised over time that its more practical to think in terms of convenience and comfort when choosing clothes for the baby and myself. Carrying an extra set of clothing for you and the baby is a must. I had to undergo a whole journey of five hours with a big yellow blotch on my white shirt….ugghh (yes you guessed it right- a spill over)!

I used to carry all kinds of books, colours, crayons, puzzles, favourite stuffed toy and their favourite food. Pulling out their favourite candy in a meltdown situation was an absolute life saver. Also, a new item amongst these to liven up the travel time and keep them occupied longer. When I look around now, I see how convenient it is to carry the otherwise elusive i-pad, i-pod, Kindle and other electronic entertainment. These would be a blessing on board to keep the kids engaged.

Remember the days when the airline crew used to serve us some candy as we boarded? Well, that wasn’t just for a warm welcome. It seems that chewing and swallowing equalises the pressure on both side of eardrums. It’s this pressure difference that causes the horrific ear ache that most kids complain of and cry during take-off and landing. The airline doesn’t indulge us anymore, so always carry some candy or chewing gum to give your older child. The younger ones can use a bottle, a sipping cup or a pacifier during landing and take-off.

The idea is to keep the child happy on board with all the distractions possible. Many years ago, I asked a flight attendant to change my seat because of a crying baby next to me. Turns out you can’t do that if the baby is yours!! Well parents….we’ll just have to wing it!

*Certified Parenting Counsellor and Consulting Nutritionist