On the plane

Last updated at 16:43 27 November 2001


Here are some tips to help make your plane journey go smoothly:

* Take something very comfortable for your child to sleep with, such as a lambskin or cuddly blanket

* Take with you as hand luggage at least one change of clothes and nappy, even if your child is toilet trained. Most toddlers would find it hard to wait in the queue for the toilet

* If you have more than one small child, split them up and each sit with one child. They are less likely to set each other off, and will appreciate having your undivided attention

* Make sure you have plenty of pre-moistened wipes for sticky situations

* BA has a "Feed Kids First" arrangement, which means you don't have to feed your child while your own meal goes cold.

Over-twos can have their food in a "Skyflyer" picnic box (this must be ordered when booking your flight) that can be taken away with them

* Aim for toys that won't annoy other passengers too much, such as stacking cups, magnetic stick-together blocks, picture books, sticker books and finger puppets. Do not take a toy trumpet

* Give them lots to drink so they do not become dehydrated, but steer clear of sugary ones

* They will need to move about on the plane, and at least they cannot get out! Running up and down the aisle will not hurt anyone, but make sure they don't wander about waking people up

* Keep back toys - don't give them out all at once. Reserve special toys for most tense moments

* To avoid ear pain, the biggest cause of crying on an aeroplane, give them something to suck on take-off and landing, either a bottle if they still have one, or a boiled sweet

Most watched News videos

Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.