How To: Traveling with Younger Children
As the holiday season comes into full swing, you’ll likely spend some time on the road, either to go Christmas shopping, visit family, look at Christmas lights, or attend holiday events. No matter what you’re doing, if you have little ones in tow, your flight or car ride might not be a walk in the park. Here are four great ways to prep for traveling with your little ones.Plan & PackLet your little ones know you’re going on a trip, and keep reminding them so that they are better equipped to emotionally handle the idea of being stuck in one spot for a longer period of time. Talk to them about expected behaviors and explain where you’re going, so they look forward to the destination on the other side of the ride. Pack a small bag that you’ll easily be able to access during the trip. Fill it with a change of clothes, extra diapers and diaper wipes, snacks, a favorite toy, book, or blanket. Read Up on TSAIf you’re flying with a little one, read up on security requirements to save you some time and sanity. Children under 12 are allowed to keep their shoes on going through security but may wonder why you, their parent, have to take yours off. You’ll have to walk your child through the security gate – they can’t be pushed through in a carrier or stroller - and any strollers small enough to fit through the machine, as well as any bags you have must be scanned. If you are nursing, then any breast milk, formula, and/or food must be placed in a zip-lock baggy.Planning Your TripIf it’s possible, try to schedule part of your drive or flight over a nap time or during bedtime, so your child will sleep part or most of the way. Nursing, bottle-feeding, or a pacifier can help ease pain during takeoff and landing on flights, and portable, child-friendly activities keep your child busy and entertained during the trip. ArrivingMake sure to check your arrival destination – whether a hotel room or a relative’s home – for any safety concerns, like exposed outlets. Try to stick to your home routine as much as possible to acclimate your child to a foreign environment faster. Be realistic about what your child will be able to do, and give yourself plenty of time to get to any activities you might be attending while there. It takes a little bit of time and some extra effort, but following these steps will help you and your child to have the most enjoyable time possible during your holiday travel. Enjoying the season and spending time with your loved ones is, after all, the most important aspect of your holiday traveling and celebration. The Orlando Catholic school's blog page has helpful hints for parents to encourage their children to excel academically, spiritually, and socially. To learn more about Catholic schools in Orlando, contact us at 407-246-4800.