Air Travel with Preschoolers

Question

I feel as though I might be the only mom in America who hasn't flown with her children on a plane and I would love to take them on a flight to visit their great-grandmother soon. Their ages are 3 1/2 and nearly five, and the oldest is on the autism spectrum and has high anxiety about loud noises and sometimes unfamiliar places and people. I'm nervous about the typical obstacles of air travel with young children (what do you do about car seats??) and having a child who throws giant fits when he feels overwhelmed makes me feel that flying might just not be an option -- but a 14 hour car ride doesn't seem like it's in the cards either. What are your tricks for traveling with young children, particularly with little ones who are neurologically atypical?

Anonymous · Answer

My family flew often--5 kids, two of whom are not neurotypical. My older sister always played a game with me to make take-off less scary (for herself. I loved it!). We had to close our eyes and guess when the front wheels and back wheels left the ground.  I will add that some airlines are better about dealing with kids and autistic people in general--so maybe check around with reviews online.  Pressure canceling earbuds/ headphones might help. And make sure you bring plenty of comfort objects with you. (Also, my mom was not above giving us Dramamine 'to prevent airsickness' which only she got. but the meds made us sleep, which made us easier for her to handle. I wouldn't endorse drugging your kids unnecessarily, but you could ask your doctor if there is something safe to help his anxiety.)

BeckyB_25 · Answer

Yes to the gummys! CBD or Melatonin. Good luck!

Sharika82 · Answer

I travel with my 5 year old son who is also autistic and has anxiety as well. Before we get on the plane he asks constantly “if the plane is gonna fall out of the sky”.  On the flight he and I always get praises from everyone because of how well behaved he is and it’s probably because I give him a cbd gummy to calm him down and help him relax.

Not Applicable · Answer

I'm going to look into these gummies -- and not just for the kids. For me, too!

Air Travel with Preschoolers

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