I am looking to book a flight from Boston to NC. I am brining my (just) 2 year old son. Any one know a really child friendly airline or just have any tips to help the flight go easily I was a Flight Attendant for 13 years, 2 companies both U.S. companies. I flew on other airlines as well, both with and without my children. There really isn't that much difference. In your shoes, I'd pick the one which has the best price and schedule.
Some airlines don't have preboarding...officially. I will admit that I've been up near the front with my children and have been ushered on with the special handing passengers. Once, on an airline that didn't preboard families, this nice guy shouted to them "Hey, you guys forgot this mom who is alone with her three kids!" and how could they refuse me?? So even if they don't preboard, look ready to go and be near the front of the line and see what happens!
If your son hasn't flown before, talk about it and perhaps get a book at the library (there are quite a few on the subject). Even take him down to any airport if you live close enough.
The security is the scariest part for kids. They actually find the flying part fun. Let him know that he needs to put his toys on the security belt and to walk through the arch. You go first and have him follow;
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/c...
Bring books, let him carry a small backpack with toys he's chosen. For long flights, I have a suprise new toy that I bring out once in the air.
Some might recommend a portable DVD player. I have never used them that young but decide for yourself. If you do opt to take it, or any electronical gadgets, please charge them before leaving. How disappointing it is when they run out and it's rare that you can do it onboard. Get him used to using it with earphones. Bring the recharger, if you have time, before any connections.
Learn to change him standing up, if he is in diapers. This does take practice but toddlers hate to lie down in strange places and the inflight changing tables are usually too small for them. I use the handicapped lavs instead of the ones with changing tables. In the terminal, you can use either.
You can get up and move around during the flight but please try to do so after the meal service. Always keep an eye on him. Those carts are heavy and are just above a toddler's head. We simply couldn't see them so please be careful. If turbulence hits while you're up, don't return to your seat unless it's safe and close enough to do so. If it's really rough, consider sitting on the floor! Same with the restroom (ugh! but better that than injured).
Toddlers still do best in "bulkhead" seats. These are the ones behind a wall. They're located throughout the aircraft. Request them early through reservations or through your travel agent. They're popular. You can get in and out of them better and no kicking the passengers in the row in front (toddlers are very good at this!)
Just some other small tips;
-Bring a change of clothes
-Bring way more diapers than you think you'll need
-Learn to change him standing up (don't try to fit him on those tiny babychangers and toddlers hate to lie down in strange places)
-Bring an empty sippy cup to fill during the services. This will prevent spills in the air.
-Get up and move around with him but keep an eye out. Don't try to get back to your seats unless it's safe to do so.
-Bring snacks. Don't fret security. I've never had anything taken away (yes, water but not snacks) and that's the only risk. If you have something not allowed, they simply remove the item. No scenes, no speeches, no arrests!
-Consider ordering special meals. Little ones usually hate the standard fare.
-Bring slippers, especially if you're not in the bulkhead!
I do recommend that you bring his carseat along. . Since your 2 year old has a seat, you have the right to use a FAA approved carseat.
Check the one you already have for a FAA "sticker" which now is usually simply on the side information bar. Usually there's a little airplane and it says "...has been approved for use on aircraft..." etc. Most U.S. carseats are FAA approved. If it's not, which is unlikely, consider borrowing (trading?) or simply buy another. Good ones go for as little as $40.
First check that your seat is FAA approved. most sold in the U.S. are.
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_childr...
I recommend this option over using a CARES harness, which isn't as secure and can only be used inflight. At $75, it seems steep for such a one-purpose gizmo but it's your money to spend as you wish!
They are usually more comfortable in their own familiar seat and it virtually guarentees that your car seat will get to your destination without being lost or damaged in the hold.
I will admit that I've strapped down an unhappy little one more than once. Toddlers hate to be confined and simply don't understand that they have to be seated sometimes. Firmly anchored in, I could then consol them while we landed.
To get through the airport, they sell all sorts of gizmos like this;
http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_k...
I simply use a small metal luggage cart with an extra bungee cord and it works great. I skip on the stroller and she can even ride in it (and she's 3 1/2). She usually prefers to walk and then I load the carry-ons abord.
If you do bring a stroller, before handing it over at the gate, remove all "extras", i.e. cup holders, toys, even the sunshade depending on the model (I put mine in the checked suitcase). Attach the straps. Bring a bungee cord and after folding it, double secure it so that it doesn't pop open en route and get damaged.
Many flying tips say to make the child suck on something or drink during take-off and landing. This isn't accurate. ENT specialists say to have the child awake about an hour before landing (top of descent, landing or touch-down is too late).
http://www.entcda.com/AAOHNSF/earsandalt...
I can confirm that is when I saw problems at work. Take your child to the doctor in the last few days before you fly to make sure his ears are clear and infection-free. Heathy ears can handle pressurization changes.
If you'd like more information on flying with children, about 8 years ago I wrote this totally non-commercial article based on both my professional and practical experience. Parents from around the world have also contributed over the years;
http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com
My contact information is at the end.
Have a great trip! The most child friendly Airline that I know of is Southwest Airlines. Unfortunately they do not fly from Boston to NC. The Flight Attendant down below said it well and very helpful information but she she is a bit long winded isn't she? |
