How to prepare your child for his first flight

Flying with children, especially on long flights, can be a complex and challenging experience. However, with proper planning and following some basic tips, you can make this trip comfortable and enjoyable. In this article, we will review Dalili Medical  all aspects of flying with children and discuss important details that can contribute to improving the travel experience.

**Minimum flying age for children**

 

The rules regarding the age of children vary from airport to airport, but in general, children between the ages of 5 and 11 are allowed to travel alone. Some airports impose restrictions on children under the age of 7 or 8. Children between the ages of 1 and 4 can only travel with an adult, and will not be allowed to enter the airport alone. On the other hand, children between the ages of 5 and 7 are allowed to travel to one destination only, and are not allowed to travel intercontinentally between connecting airports. Ticket prices depend on the airline, the age of the child, and the type of ticket, whether it is in business class or economy class. Most airlines charge a fee for children, while some offer special discounts, such as the ability to fly multiple children on one ticket.

Is it allowed to fly with a two-month-old baby?

 

Yes, most airlines allow two-month-old babies to fly. However, it is always best to check the policy of the airline you are flying with. In general, flying with an infant of this age is considered appropriate if the child is healthy and the doctor has not advised otherwise. It is important to keep a few tips in mind to ensure the comfort and safety of the infant during the flight. Here are some useful tips when traveling with a two-month-old baby:

- Consult your pediatrician before traveling to ensure that there are no health problems that would prevent the infant from flying.

- Prepare a bag containing essentials such as diapers, milk, medications if necessary, and other supplies that provide comfort for the infant.

- Relieve the effects of pressure changes during take-off and landing by offering the baby a bottle, which helps reduce pressure on the ears.

**How ​​to prepare your child for flying alone?**

 

Sending your child to fly alone is an important and difficult step for parents. Preparing children to travel can be stressful, and while the experience of traveling alone can be exciting, it can also be anxiety-provoking. Every year, incidents occur where unaccompanied children are exposed to difficult situations during their travels. Here are some basic tips to consider before you decide to send your child alone.

**Make sure your child is ready to travel alone** First and foremost, your child should be mentally and emotionally prepared to travel alone. If your child is not ready or willing to be away from you, you should not risk sending them alone. Children can be intimidated by the idea of ​​traveling alone and may lack the confidence to face this experience, which can lead to difficulties in dealing with situations that may arise during the trip.

**Choosing the right seat for your child** Choosing the right seat is one of the most important basic preparations for your child’s travel. It is preferable to choose a window seat and close to the bathroom, as this will help reduce their contact with strangers and reduce their anxiety around new people. However, if your child has any concerns about height or other issues, you can choose another seat that is suitable for them. Try to book a seat that is close to the bathroom or toilet, which will be easy for your child to reach without disturbing others.

**Packing the bag carefully** Make sure to pack everything carefully and carefully. Avoid overloading the bag with unnecessary items for your child, and focus on packing only the essential items. Use good packing materials, and provide them with small bags that are suitable for their size, so that they can carry them easily.

**Booking a personal assistant** Many airlines offer the services of agents or personal assistants to assist passengers during their flight and at the airports, which contributes to making their experience more comfortable and happy.

Choosing a personal assistant for your child is one of the best options available. The agent will accompany your child to the boarding gate, help them with luggage, and guide them through the airport corridors and lounges until they reach the plane. They will also guide your child through the various stages of the flight, and take them to parking areas, in addition to providing many other services.

You can also book them a VIP membership, which gives them access to all the necessary services to make their trip easier. This membership will provide them with access to lounges and other business class services, making their travel more comfortable.

**Buy VIP Membership** Many airlines offer a VIP membership service. If you want to provide dedicated business class facilities and services for your child, you can book this service online. The airline will provide them with a lounge or a private bathroom.

You can spend some time with your child before the flight, and with the VIP card, they will be able to benefit from all the services available during the flight. After arriving, they can relax in these lounges, where sleeping facilities and private suites are also available.

**Results before flying with a three-month-old baby**

 

If you are planning to fly with a three-month-old baby, there are some important points to consider to ensure a safe and comfortable flight. Here are the most important tips to consider:

1. Consult your pediatrician before traveling to make sure that your baby’s health condition allows him to travel.

2. Choose the timing of the flight carefully, and it is preferable to book a flight that fits the baby’s sleeping routine as much as possible.

3. Pack essentials in your carry-on bag, such as diapers, wipes, extra clothes, a blanket, and a bottle of formula ready.

4. Offer your baby a pacifier during takeoff and landing to relieve ear pressure.

5. Choose a comfortable seat for you and your baby to ensure maximum comfort during the flight.

What to Pack When Traveling with a 12-Year-OldFlying?

 

When traveling with a one-year-old, it is essential to prepare a set of supplies to ensure his and your comfort during the trip. Here are the most important essentials to consider:

- A bag containing basic baby supplies such as diapers, wet wipes, and extra clothes.

- Healthy and easy snacks, in addition to a bottle of milk and a bottle of water.

- Baby food items such as a small spoon and travel-friendly food containers.

- A pacifier, which will help relieve stress and reduce pressure on his ear during takeoff and landing.

- Small, quiet toys to keep the child busy and calm.

- A comfortable blanket to help him sleep better.

What do you need at the airport when traveling with a two-year-old?

 

Traveling with children aged two and up is less stressful than traveling with infants, but it requires good preparation from the moment you arrive at the airport. Here are some tips to improve your airport experience when traveling with a child of this age:

- Try to arrive at the airport early before the flight's departure time, to avoid any unexpected changes that may affect your trip.

- Use easy-to-remove shoes for children to facilitate the screening process, as children take longer to untie and unfasten their shoes.

- Avoid bringing any unnecessary supplies, as they will take longer to be screened before you board the plane.

- Take your child to the bathroom several times before boarding the plane, especially since using the bathroom may be difficult at the beginning of the flight.

How to prepare for flying with a three-year-old?

 

When traveling with a child of this age, it is important to prepare well to ensure a comfortable and smooth flight for you and your child. Here are some tips that can help you prepare:

- Talk to your child about the flight and the experience of flying, as this will help reduce anxiety and increase his excitement.

- Plan the flight time carefully, and try to choose a time that matches the child's nap time.

- Prepare your handbag with all the necessary supplies such as food, drinks, and light toys.

- Choose comfortable clothes for the child, preferably with extra layers because the temperature on board the plane may be low.

- Book a suitable seat, and if the flight is long, it is preferable to book an extra seat for your child to increase comfort.

- Pay attention to the precautions for the child's ears while traveling, and it is preferable for him to chew something or drink water during take-off and landing to relieve pressure on the ears.

- Be patient and flexible, and be prepared to deal with any emergency that may occur during the flight

Children should know who will receive them at the airport

It is important for your children to know who the guardian or adult is who will receive them. Make sure to provide them with his name and phone number or any other document. The person receiving your child must provide a photo ID and other papers upon arrival.

**Follow up on the children's trip**

You may be worried about your children's trip all the time, but there is no need to worry anymore. You can contact the airlines to track the location of the plane at any time. You will receive updates on all stages of the trip, allowing you to follow their progress continuously.

**Ways to Keep Kids Calm During a Flight**

Long flights are especially challenging when traveling with children, as they can get bored quickly and can become restless, which can affect the comfort of other passengers. Therefore, it is important to have a plan in advance before you set off. Children often need to eat or drink water, so it is a good idea to prepare snacks for them.

This way, you can help calm your child. Also, make sure to take precautions to avoid ear congestion or any health problems that may arise during the flight. It is a good idea to prepare some toys, books, pens, and notebooks, and you can also check out the entertainment options available for children on the plane. If you are sitting by the window, you can talk to your children about the sky and clouds to keep them occupied. If you are by the aisle, you can take small tours inside the plane.

**Preparing for the flight: Basics and tips**

Being well prepared before the flight is the first step towards a successful travel experience with children. This preparation includes organizing documents, packing smartly, and learning about airline policies.

**Basic preparation tips:**

. **Check Documents:** Make sure that all travel documents, such as tickets, passports, and visas, are ready and up to date. For international flights, check that passports are valid and visas comply with the requirements of the destination.

. **Pack Smart:** Prepare a special bag for each child containing extra clothes, hygiene supplies, and any necessary medications. It is also preferable to prepare a separate bag for toys and snacks. Don’t forget to put the child’s favorite toys in the bag to keep him occupied during the flight.

. **Learn about airline policies:** Airlines’ policies regarding traveling with children vary. These policies include provisions regarding child seats, special services, and the transportation of hygiene supplies. It is advisable to contact the airline for the necessary information.

**Hygiene and Medical Care** Maintaining hygiene and managing necessary medications can help avoid health problems and keep your child healthy during the flight. Anticipating and preparing for hygiene and medical care needs, including necessary medications and hygiene products, is of utmost importance.

Tips for maintaining hygiene and health care:

**Essential medications:** Make sure that your child has the necessary medications, including prescription and regular medications, in sufficient quantities during the flight. It is preferable to put the medications in an easily accessible bag, and make sure that the necessary information about the medications is available. If special medications or prescriptions are required, make sure to carry the required copies.

**Hygiene tools:** Using wet wipes, sanitizing gel, and clean towels to wash hands areImportant things to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. It is also advisable to take into account that some airlines may provide special hygiene tools, so it is preferable to do research in advance.

**Providing comfort and quiet sleep for children** Ensuring comfort and quiet sleep for children during flights, especially long ones, is very important. A suitable sleeping environment contributes to improving the quality of the child's sleep and avoiding fatigue and discomfort.

**Tips for a comfortable sleep:**

- **Travel pillows:** Pillows designed for travel can contribute to the comfort of the child's sleep and relieve neck and back pain. These pillows should be soft and comfortable enough to facilitate the child's sleep.

- **Soft covers:** Using blankets or soft covers helps provide comfort for the child and protects him from feeling cold. If the child is accustomed to using a specific blanket, it is preferable to take it with him.

- **Quiet environment:** Creating a quiet environment for the child to sleep enhances the quality of his sleep. It is advisable to avoid disturbing sounds and bright lights, and if possible, use an eye mask and earplugs for the child.

**Dealing with potential challenges: Effective solutions**

 

Dealing with potential challenges and problems that may arise during the flight requires good preparation and planning in advance. Anticipating problems and finding appropriate solutions can help reduce stress and enhance the travel experience.

**Effective solutions to potential challenges:**

**Managing anxiety and fear:** If the child is afraid of flying or closed spaces, it is important to talk to him and calm him down. Relaxation techniques and clear explanations can help relieve anxiety. It is also preferable to consult the airline about any problems specific to the child if possible.

**Dealing with digestive problems:** If the child suffers from digestive problems such as nausea or abdominal pain, it is recommended to use appropriate medications and natural calming methods. It is preferable to avoid heavy and spicy foods, and to provide soothing drinks such as ginger or mint.

**Dealing with discontent:** If the child is unhappy during the flight, you should pay attention to him and try to calm him down through entertainment, games, and fun activities. Communicating with the flight crew for help and support can have a great positive impact.

**Entertaining Activities for Kids While Traveling**

- **PUZZLE**I can't pinpoint the exact reason why kids love puzzles, but they are a great way to entertain kids with their various shapes and attractive colors while traveling. These activities can give you the opportunity to sit quietly next to your child at the airport or on the plane while he assembles his puzzle. What's more, they are not just a way to entertain children, but are purposeful educational activities.

**Benefits of Puzzle Games for Kids:**

- Encourage critical thinking before making any decision.

- Enhance awareness of the required steps of work.

- Develop problem-solving skills, as the child tirelessly seeks to find the right place for each piece.

- Develop fine motor skills.

- Improve eye-hand coordination.

**Idea for making a handmade puzzle:**

If you are a fan of handicrafts or want to reduce expenses a little, here is a great idea for making a handmade puzzle that can be given to children while traveling by plane.

**Poppy Stick Puzzle**

**Method:**

1. Print a picture that catches your child's attention, such as their favorite character.

2. Glue the picture on the back of the popsicle sticks.

3. Flip the picture over and cut it out using a scalpel between each stick.

4. You can add a protective layer to the picture.

5. You can number the sticks so that one side is for counting and the other is for assembly.

6. You can also glue two pictures, making each side of the stick a different puzzle.

**Playing with Play-Doh while traveling with children on a plane:**

You may want to limit the colors of the play-doh to two or three colors at most while traveling to make it easier to carry among other things and to avoid a mess at the airport or plane. However, this method remains a great way to entertain children during the trip.

**Benefits of Playing with Play-Doh for Children**

Playing with play-doh is a beneficial activity for children, as it contributes to:

- Stimulating children's imagination and developing their creativity.

- Enhancing the child's mental, motor and social skills.

- Being a safe material for the child's health, especially if prepared at home, as it contains only natural ingredients.

Clay is also easy to prepare, and there are many similar home recipes. Here is one of them:

**How ​​to make clay (paste) at home:**

 

**Ingredients:**

- 1 cup flour

- 1 cup water

- A quarter cup of salt

- A tablespoon of vinegar

- A tablespoon of vegetable oil

- Food coloring

- Cream of tartar (optional)

**Method:**

1. Add all the ingredients except the food coloring to a pot (pan) and place it on low heat, stirring constantly until it dries and becomes cohesive, and turns into a dough that does not stick to your hands.

2. Remove the pot from the heat and separate the dough into two or more parts (you can wait a little until it cools down before that).

3. Add a drop or two of food coloring to each section and mix well until completely colored.

4. Keep the dough in an airtight container to keep it from drying out for as long as possible.

**3. Have fun with a healthy (or unhealthy, depending on your preference) snack**

You can prepare a variety of snacks to take with you while traveling with children on the plane. You can offer them when they feel hungry or when they are bored at the airport or on the plane, which helps calm them down a bit.

Use this time to talk to your children about fun topics, and spend quality time with them during the flight.

**4- “I see something with my eyes...” game**

The “I see something with my eyes...” game is one of the fun games that can be played while traveling with children on the plane, as it does not require any movement, allowing you to play while sitting in your seats.

**Bring your favorite game while traveling with children on the plane**

It is useful to take your child's favorite toy with you while traveling. This toy is something they cannot do without, and which often helps calm them down. Children's favorite toys are not just means of entertainment, but are also effective tools to absorb their stress and anxiety from new situations that may upset them.

**- Reading stories and books** Reading stories is one of the best means of entertainment while traveling with children on the plane, and even at all times.

You can buy new stories that your child has not read before, and give them to them at the airport or on the plane at the appropriate time. Choose meaningful stories that you know will attract your children's attention, such as their favorite characters or topics they love.

* As for your older children, bring them a variety of books that interest them, read with them or let them read on their own, then share with them what they have read.

- Enhances the child's listening skills.

- Improves communication skills.

- Strengthens empathy skills.

- Contributes to expanding vocabulary.

- Helps to enhance focus and discipline.

- Creates strong bonds between children.

- Exercises the brain.

**Drawing and coloring while traveling by plane with children** Some "scribbling" in a notebook can help you understand what is going on in your little one's mind (or children) about traveling or any other thoughts. Drawing and coloring will provide them with a way to occupy and focus, which helps pass the time during the trip, whether it is long or short.

**- Quiz questions, information and playing cards** This activity is more suitable for older children. You can prepare a set of questions that challenge your child's thinking in a way that stimulates them without annoying them, so that they do not get bored quickly. You can also offer small prizes to increase the excitement.

You can also bring group playing cards if you are a group, and let your children play with each other, or with their friends if they have them, or even with you.

**Tips before traveling**

There are some points to consider before traveling to ensure a comfortable and successful travel experience with children. Here are the most important tips:

**Preparing travel supplies for children**When traveling with children, it is essential to prepare their own supplies. Here are the most important items to bring:

- **Toys and activities for children**: These supplies are essential factors that help keep children busy during the trip, which reduces their feelings of stress and anxiety. It is important to choose games that suit their ages; if the child prefers electronic games, it is preferable to bring a tablet that contains these games. You can also bring dolls and paper games for young children, in addition to stories and children's books. You can take advantage of the offers and discounts available through the AliExpress discount code to get a variety of games that suit different ages and interests.

**Extra clothes:** It is preferable to prepare spare clothes in the backpack in case of any emergency, such as sudden changes in the weather or food or drink spills on the child's clothes.

**Snacks:** It is important to prepare favorite snacks for the child, such as nuts, fruits, cakes and biscuits, and others.

**Personal hygiene supplies:** You should bring hygiene supplies such as wet wipes, sterilizers, and waste bags.

**Baby Essentials:** If there are infants, it is necessary to prepare their own supplies, such as diapers, extra clothes, wet wipes, feeding supplies such as milk, a thermal bottle to store water, feeding tools, in addition to a travel stroller and a travel bed for sleeping, etc.

**Tips to consider when traveling with children**

After preparing a well-thought-out plan and preparing travel supplies for children, there are some tips that must be taken into account during the trip at the airport and on the plane. Here are the most important of these tips:

- Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the flight time to avoid any emergencies.

- Make sure to feed the children and take them to the bathroom before boarding the plane, and if you have an infant, do not forget to change his diaper as well.

- Try to maintain the child's daily routine on the plane as much as possible, such as sleeping times, eating and activities.

- If the child feels any discomfort, it is important to talk to him patiently and wisely, and avoid getting angry. You can also give him a surprise gift at such times.

- Encourage children to eat or chew gum during takeoff and landing, as this helps relieve pressure on their ears.

**Nutrition and Hydration for Children During the Flight**

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential factors in maintaining the health and comfort of children during flights. Dry air inside the plane can reduce the body's hydration level and increase the feeling of thirst. Therefore, it is necessary to provide sufficient water and choose healthy snacks for children.

**Nutrition and Hydration Tips:**

- **Drink Water Regularly:** Children should be reminded of the importance of drinking water regularly. Water helps avoid dehydration and enhances the feeling of comfort during the flight. It is also preferable to choose drinks free of sugar and caffeine.

- **Choose Healthy Snacks:** Healthy snacks such as fresh fruits, cut vegetables, and low-salt nuts can contribute to providing energy and reducing the feeling of hunger. It is advisable to avoid fatty foods and sweets, as they may cause a feeling of heaviness and discomfort. It is also preferable to coordinate with airlines in advance to provide special meals for children.

- **Anticipate dietary needs:** If your child has a special diet, make sure to carry appropriate foods and coordinate these needs with the airline in advance. It is also a good idea to carry extra snacks in case of emergency.