Entertaining kids on long trips can be a Level 10 parenting challenge! But there's good news. Adding movies, games or videos to your travel toolkit won't do any harm, even if you usually keep screen time to a minimum.
Here are some pointers for using digital media to keep toddlers and preschoolers content during air travel. Parents planning car or train trips will benefit from them, too.
- Wait a bit. Though you might feel tempted to hand your smartphone over at the first sign of fussiness, it's better to wait. You have a long day ahead of you—so having a movie, game or video in reserve is usually the best strategy.
- Help them enjoy the experience. For little ones, getting on a plane is a big deal! Lean into their curiosity and enthusiasm by giving them little tasks, such as wheeling their own suitcase or helping you find the gate. While you're waiting to board, take them to the window and point out the different jobs that ground crew are doing to get the plane ready.
- Make them comfortable. Once you're onboard, create a little nest for them with pillows and blankets from home. A few sips of water or a light snack can refresh their energy.
- Anticipate delays. It's hard to keep kids calm while waiting for takeoff, especially if the cabin is excessively hot or cold. If they're already squirming and fussing, maybe it's time for a game or short video. Or, you can hold them in your lap and read a story, play finger games or talk about what you'll do when you land.
- Have content ready. If you are bringing your own mobile device, pre-select and download digital content for your child before you leave home. If you're not sure what to choose, visit the
Common Sense Media website, where you'll find thousands of media reviews—movies, games, video series, audiobooks and more, all rated for different ages and levels of development. If your airline has an in-flight entertainment system, navigate through it with your child.
- Stay connected. It's tempting to zone out when your child finally quiets down in front of a screen. If you need a few minutes to yourself, definitely take them. Later you can reconnect by watching or playing with them. Their giggles and responses can give you clues about the kind of stories, characters and games they like.
- Manage pauses. When it's time for a bathroom break or snack, help your child shift gears. Tell them you will pause the screen for now, but come back to it in a little bit.
- Avoid autoplay. When content launches automatically, kids may struggle when it's time to pause. Help them by starting and pausing content manually so that transitions are easier.
- Offer other activities. Instead of relying on screens to fill the whole flight, bring a few more options along. A coloring book, a mess-free drawing tablet, a magnetic puzzle or finger puppets are all good choices.
Research shows that when kids can choose from a range of fun activities—with screen time being just one—it's easier to turn off screens when it's time.
For more tips on managing your child's screen habits, explore the American Academy of Pediatrics' free, downloadable
Family Media Plan. It's a great way to set healthy guidelines the whole family can follow. Still have questions? Visit the Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health’s question-and-answer portal to explore commonly asked questions and submit your own.
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