Smooth Skies Ahead: Fun Things To Do On a Plane for Kids
Picture this: you’re 30,000 feet in the air, and your children are giggling, engaged, and happy. Sounds too good to be true? Think again!
Traveling with kids can be a breeze when you know how to keep them entertained.
Whether you’re facing a short hop or a longer haul, we’ve got the ultimate guide of things to do on a plane to keep your little ones busy and smiling all flight long.
Contents:
- Hacks and Tips for a Smooth Flight
- Flying with a Toddler? No Problem!
- Airplane Activities for Kids (Preschool)
- Things to Do on a Plane for Older Kids
- FAQs
Hacks and Tips for a Smooth Flight
Studio Romantic/Shutterstock.com
To reiterate, preparation is key when traveling with kids.
Here are some tips to make sure you have a smooth flight with an infant, toddler, or even an older kid.
Plan Ahead
Before you even pack your bags, plan out your trip. This is important for any trip, whether it’s a plane ride or a road trip, but especially for longer journeys. Know the flight duration, layover times, and any other details that can help in planning activities.
The timing of your flight is an important factor to consider, but it shouldn’t be the only one. You’ll also want to think about where you’ll be sitting and how long your child will need to sit still on a plane before layovers and final arrivals—when they’re able to take a break to run around, this can help get some of the “wiggles” out.
There are countless websites, like SeatGuru, that can help you pick the best seats for families, so put some thought into where you’ll be sitting on the plane. If you can, try to get seats with a bit more legroom or closer to the lavatories to make the trip a little more convenient.
Pack a List for In-Flight Entertainment
perfectlab/Shutterstock.com
Consider packing more entertainment options than you think you might need. You’ll be grateful for the options when you need them!
You can include items like coloring books, magnetic board games, and child-friendly headphones. Invest in a good-quality tablet loaded with educational and entertaining apps, videos, and music.
Many airlines offer USB ports for charging, so don’t forget the charging cable. And remember, the novelty of a new app or game can be just as exciting as a new toy.
Create a Surprise Bag
Another tip is to pack a surprise bag filled with small toys, puzzles, and activities. Introduce one new item at regular intervals throughout the flight to keep your child’s interest piqued.
Consider Backup Plans
Always have a backup plan—and a backup plan for your backup plan. Sometimes, even the best-laid plans can go awry.
Be ready with extra activities or toys if your child loses interest in what you initially packed. Flexibility and a positive attitude can make a world of difference.
Use the Power of Tech
Invest in noise-canceling headphones to block out the loud engine noise, which can be unsettling for young children. Also, you may want to pre-download their favorite shows or movies to avoid relying on in-flight entertainment, which might not always be kid-friendly.
Download the Findmykids App
Findmykids app
In addition to your travel preparations, consider using the Findmykids app to enhance your child’s safety and your peace of mind. The app allows you to monitor your child’s location in real-time, ensuring they are always safe and within your sight. You can receive instant alerts if your child strays from a designated area, which is especially useful in crowded airports or new environments.
The app also includes a Sound Around function, allowing you to hear the sounds around your child and ensure they are in a comfortable and secure environment.
Don’t forget to use the Findmykids app to keep your child safe wherever you go!
Flying with a Toddler? No Problem!
Lenar Nigmatullin/Shutterstock.com
Flying with a toddler might sound daunting—and it certainly can be. But with the right preparation, it can be an enjoyable experience for everyone (yes, even you, Mom and Dad!).
Toddlers are naturally curious and full of energy, so it’s essential to have a bag of tricks ready.
Here are some fun things to do on a plane when you’re flying with a toddler.
How to Prepare for a Flight with a Toddler
FamVeld/Shutterstock.com
Timing is Everything
First and foremost, consider the timing of your flight.
Aim for flights that coincide with your child’s naptime or bedtime to increase the chances of them sleeping through a significant portion. Bring along their favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help them feel secure and comfortable.
Snacks Galore
Another tip is to pack snacks—lots of them! Snacks can be a great distraction and help manage their hunger. Nobody wants to deal with a hangry two-year-old!
Not only that, but having a variety of small, easy-to-eat snacks can keep your toddler occupied and content if they aren’t necessarily “hangry” yet. Think along the lines of cheerios, sliced fruits, cheese sticks, and crackers.
Comfort and Familiarity
A familiar item from home can make all the difference. Whether it’s a beloved toy, blanket, or even a piece of clothing with your scent on it, these items can provide comfort and a sense of security.
Toddler Airplane Activities and Games
ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock.com
Keeping a toddler entertained on a plane doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple activities can be incredibly engaging for little ones.
Stickers and Paper
Stickers are a fantastic way to keep toddlers entertained. Bring along a small notebook or a pad of paper and a variety of stickers. Your toddler can create their own sticker scenes, which can keep them busy for a surprisingly long time.
Magnetic Board Games
Magnetic board games are perfect for airplanes because the pieces won’t get lost easily. Games like magnetic chess, checkers, or tic-tac-toe can be fun and challenging for older toddlers.
Please keep a close eye on your child when they are playing with magnetic pieces to ensure they do not swallow them under any circumstances. This is very dangerous!
Interactive Books
Books with flaps, textures, and sound buttons can captivate a toddler’s attention. Choose a few of their favorite titles or surprise them with new ones. Interactive books like “Dear Zoo” or “Press Here” can be particularly engaging.
Play-Doh and Molds
a small container of Play-Doh and a few molds can provide endless entertainment. It’s a tactile activity that allows them to create and recreate shapes and figures. Just make sure you pack some baby wipes as well to wipe their tiny fingers after they’re done playing!
Water Wow Books
Water Wow books by Melissa & Doug are a mess-free coloring option, making them a good choice for inflight entertainment. They come with a water-filled pen that reveals colors on the pages, and once the pages dry, the colors disappear, allowing for repeated use.
Airplane Activities for Kids (Preschool)
Wutthichai Phosri/Shutterstock.com
Preschoolers and kindergarten-age kids have a bit more patience and can complete more complex activities.
Here are some great ideas to keep them busy.
Craft Kits
Small craft kits that include crayons, markers, and coloring books can be a hit. Look for mess-free options like Crayola Color Wonder sets, where the markers only work on special paper. Crafts that include stickers, glue sticks, and simple construction projects can also be fun—but make sure these won’t be too messy for the aircraft..
Educational Apps and Games
Educational apps and games on a tablet can be both fun and informative. Apps that teach letters, numbers, and shapes can keep preschoolers entertained while also providing a learning opportunity.
Apps like ABCmouse, Khan Academy Kids, and Toca Boca are great for this age group. These can also work well for younger children, too, but you may need to provide a bit more assistance in helping your child navigate these games.
Travel Journals
Pavel Kobysh/Shutterstock.com
Encourage your child to start a travel journal. They can draw pictures of their trip, write about their experiences, and paste them into small mementos like stickers or ticket stubs. This not only keeps them entertained but also creates a wonderful keepsake of the vacation.
DIY Bracelets
Bring along a DIY bracelet kit with colorful beads and strings. Making bracelets can be a fun and creative activity that keeps their hands busy.
Puzzle Books
Simple puzzle books with mazes, connect-the-dots, and word searches can provide hours of entertainment. Look for age-appropriate books that match their skill level.
Things to Do on a Plane for Older Kids
ANNA GRANT/Shutterstock.com
Older kids have a wider range of interests and can entertain themselves for longer periods.
Here are some top tips.
Audiobooks and Podcasts
Audiobooks and podcasts can keep kids entertained for hours. Download a few stories or episodes before your flight to keep them engaged without needing a screen. Audible and Spotify have a great selection of audiobooks and podcasts for kids.
Portable Games
Handheld gaming devices or smartphones loaded with games can be a lifesaver. Make sure to check the battery life and bring a portable charger. Games like “Minecraft,” “Animal Crossing,” and “Among Us” can keep older kids entertained.
DIY Projects
Bring along some DIY project kits. Friendship bracelet kits, origami sets, or even simple knitting projects can be both fun and relaxing. These activities can also be a great way to pass the time and learn a new skill.
Reading Books
Encourage a love for reading by bringing along a few books or a Kindle loaded with their favorite titles. Series like “Harry Potter,” “Percy Jackson,” and “The Chronicles of Narnia” are great for older kids.
Drawing and Sketching
A sketchbook and a set of colored pencils can be a great way for artistic kids to express themselves. Encourage them to draw scenes from their plane rides or create their own comic strips.
Traveling With Kids Can Be Fun—Just Follow These Tips!
FamVeld/Shutterstock.com
Traveling with kids can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Knowing what to do on a plane to keep your young travelers entertained can make the difference between a stressful flight and a smooth, enjoyable one.
Remember to pack a variety of activities tailored to your child’s age and interests. Be flexible and have backup options ready.
And most importantly, maintain a positive attitude—your children will pick up on your vibes and follow suit. It’s easy to get stressed when you’re traveling (especially with young children involved), but keeping your cool will help maintain that vibe for everyone.
Also, don’t forget about the Findmykids app—it’s essential for traveling with your child! You’ll always know where they are and what’s happening around them.
Explore more tips and join our community of family travelers. Share your own experiences and learn from others. Happy travels!
FAQs
Maria Sbytova/Shutterstock.com
How do you entertain a child on a plane?
Entertainment options for children on a plane can include a mix of activities like coloring books, magnetic board games, kid-friendly headphones for movies and music, and interactive apps on a tablet.
How do you entertain a 12-year-old on a plane?
To entertain a 12-year-old, consider audiobooks, portable gaming devices, DIY project kits, and educational podcasts. These can keep them engaged for long periods.
How do I keep my 10-year-old busy on a plane?
For a 10-year-old, pack a variety of activities such as travel journals, educational apps, portable games, and craft kits. Mixing up activities can help keep them entertained throughout the flight.
Can a 12-year-old learn to fly a plane?
While a 12-year-old cannot officially pilot a plane, they can certainly start learning about aviation. Many flight schools offer introductory courses and simulator experiences for young enthusiasts.
The picture on the front page: Maria Sbytova/Shutterstock.com
Проверьте электронный ящик
