How to Keep Your Toddler Entertained on a Plane (Without Losing Your Mind)

AvatarByDale Richard Airplane Travel Tips And Etiquettes (Do's/Don'ts)

How To Keep a Toddler Entertained on a Plane

Flying with a toddler can be a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and preparation, you can keep your little one happy and entertained for the entire flight.

In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to keep your toddler entertained on a plane, from simple games and activities to more elaborate diversions. We’ll also provide some advice on how to make the flight as comfortable as possible for both you and your child.

So whether you’re flying for a short trip or a long haul, read on for our tips on how to keep your toddler entertained on a plane!

How to Keep a Toddler Entertained on a Plane

Traveling with a toddler can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. By planning ahead and packing the right activities, you can help your toddler stay entertained on a plane and make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

Pre-flight Activities

The best way to keep your toddler entertained on a plane is to start before you even board. Here are a few ideas for pre-flight activities:

  • Read books. Reading is a great way to pass the time and it can also help your toddler learn new things. Choose books that are age-appropriate and that your toddler will enjoy. You can also read books aloud to your toddler, which can be a fun bonding experience.
  • Play games. There are many different games that you can play with your toddler on a plane. Some ideas include:
  • I Spy. This classic game is a great way to keep your toddler engaged and it can also help them learn new things about their surroundings.
  • 20 Questions. This game is a great way to test your toddler’s memory and problem-solving skills.
  • Simon Says. This game is a great way to get your toddler moving and it can also help them learn to follow directions.
  • Color. Coloring is a great way for toddlers to relax and express themselves. Pack a few coloring books and crayons or markers so your toddler can color while you’re on the plane.
  • Do puzzles. Puzzles are a great way to challenge your toddler’s mind and they can also help them learn new things. Pack a few puzzles that are age-appropriate for your toddler.
  • Play with toys. Bringing along a few favorite toys is a great way to keep your toddler entertained on a plane. Choose toys that are small and easy to travel with, and that your toddler will enjoy playing with.

Activities During Takeoff and Landing

Takeoff and landing can be a challenging time for toddlers, as they may experience discomfort due to the pressure changes. Here are a few tips for keeping your toddler entertained during takeoff and landing:

  • Offer your toddler a bottle or snack. Sucking on a bottle or eating a snack can help to relieve some of the pressure changes that your toddler may experience.
  • Let your toddler look out the window. Looking out the window can be a great way to distract your toddler and help them pass the time. Talk to your toddler about what they see and point out interesting landmarks.
  • Play games that help your toddler focus on their breathing. Breathing exercises can help to relieve some of the discomfort that your toddler may experience during takeoff and landing. Try playing a game like “Blowing Bubbles” or “Silly Faces” to help your toddler focus on their breathing.

Activities During the Flight

Once you’re in the air, there are a few more things you can do to keep your toddler entertained. Here are a few ideas:

  • Let your toddler walk around. If the flight is long enough, let your toddler walk around the cabin to stretch their legs and get some exercise. Just be sure to keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t get too close to the exit or other hazards.
  • Watch a movie. If your toddler is old enough to watch a movie, bring along a few DVDs or download some movies to your tablet or phone. You can also watch a movie on the in-flight entertainment system.
  • Play music. Playing music can be a great way to relax and entertain your toddler. Bring along some of your toddler’s favorite songs or download some music to your device. You can also listen to the in-flight entertainment system.
  • Color. Coloring is a great way for toddlers to relax and express themselves. Pack a few coloring books and crayons or markers so your toddler can color while you’re on the plane.
  • Do puzzles. Puzzles are a great way to challenge your toddler’s mind and they can also help them learn new things. Pack a few puzzles that are age-appropriate for your toddler.
  • Play with toys. Bringing along a few favorite toys is a great way to keep your toddler entertained on a plane. Choose toys that are small and easy to travel with, and that your toddler will enjoy playing with.

By following these tips, you can help your toddler stay entertained on a plane and make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

Activities Before the Flight

There are a few things you can do to help keep your toddler entertained before the flight:

  • Pack plenty of snacks. Toddlers get hungry quickly, so make sure to pack plenty of snacks that they will enjoy. Avoid sugary snacks, as they can make your toddler hyperactive. Instead, pack healthy snacks, such as fruits, vegetables, and yogurt.
  • Bring along some new toys. A new toy can help keep your toddler entertained for hours. Choose a toy that is age-appropriate and that your toddler will enjoy playing with.
  • Read a book to your toddler. Reading a book to your toddler is a great way to pass the time and help them learn new things. Choose a book that is age-appropriate and that your toddler will enjoy listening to.
  • Play games with your toddler. Playing games is a great way to keep your toddler entertained and engaged. Choose games that are age-appropriate and that your toddler will enjoy playing.
  • Let your toddler help you with simple tasks. Letting your toddler help you with simple tasks, such as folding a blanket or handing you a drink, can help them feel involved and important. It can also help them learn new skills.

Activities During the Flight

There are a few things you can do to help keep your toddler entertained during the flight:

  • Bring along a few new toys or books that your toddler hasn’t seen before. This will help keep them interested and engaged.
  • Let your toddler help you with simple tasks, such as folding a blanket or handing you a drink. This will help them feel involved and important.
  • Play games that require movement, such as “Simon Says” or “I Spy.” This will help them burn off some energy and stay entertained.
  • Watch a movie or show on your laptop or tablet. This is a great way to keep your toddler occupied for a long period of time.
  • Listen to music or sing songs. This is a great way to relax and pass the time.

Post-flight Activities

There are a few things you can do to help your toddler relax and transition back to normal life after the flight:

  • Give your toddler a bath or shower. This will help them clean up and feel refreshed.
  • Let your toddler watch a movie or play with their favorite toys. This will help them relax and transition back to their normal routine.
  • Have a snack or meal together. This will help your toddler refuel and feel energized.
  • Go for a walk or play outside. This will help your toddler get some exercise and fresh air.

By following these tips, you can help keep your toddler entertained before, during, and after your flight. This will make the trip more enjoyable for both of you.

How to Keep a Toddler Entertained on a Plane?

Q: What are some ways to keep my toddler entertained on a plane?

A: There are many ways to keep your toddler entertained on a plane, including:

  • Bring along plenty of activities. This could include books, toys, games, and snacks. Make sure to choose items that are age-appropriate and that will hold your toddler’s attention for a long period of time.
  • Let your toddler walk around. If your child is old enough to walk, allow them to get up and move around the cabin every once in a while. This will help them to burn off some energy and stay occupied.
  • Play games. There are many games that you can play with your toddler on a plane, such as “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and “Simon Says.” These games will help to pass the time and keep your child engaged.
  • Sing songs. Singing songs is a great way to entertain your toddler and help them to relax. You can sing familiar songs, or you can make up new ones.
  • Tell stories. Telling stories is a great way to engage your toddler’s imagination. You can tell stories about your own life, or you can read books to your child.
  • Watch movies or TV shows. If your child is old enough to watch movies or TV shows, you can bring along a tablet or laptop with some of their favorite shows. This will help to keep them entertained for a long period of time.

Q: What should I do if my toddler gets fussy on a plane?

A: If your toddler gets fussy on a plane, there are a few things you can do to help them calm down:

  • Stay calm yourself. If you are stressed or anxious, your toddler will pick up on your emotions and become more upset. Try to stay calm and positive, and your toddler will be more likely to calm down as well.
  • Offer your toddler a snack or drink. Sometimes, a hungry or thirsty toddler can become fussy. Offering them a snack or drink can help to improve their mood.
  • Let your toddler walk around. If your child is old enough to walk, allow them to get up and move around the cabin every once in a while. This will help them to burn off some energy and stay occupied.
  • Play games. Playing games is a great way to distract your toddler and help them to relax. You can play games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and “Simon Says.”
  • Sing songs. Singing songs is a great way to entertain your toddler and help them to relax. You can sing familiar songs, or you can make up new ones.
  • Tell stories. Telling stories is a great way to engage your toddler’s imagination. You can tell stories about your own life, or you can read books to your child.

Q: What are some things I should avoid doing on a plane with my toddler?

A: There are a few things you should avoid doing on a plane with your toddler, including:

  • Yelling at your toddler. If your toddler is getting fussy, yelling at them will only make the situation worse. Instead, try to stay calm and positive, and your toddler will be more likely to calm down as well.
  • Scolding your toddler. Scolding your toddler will only make them feel bad and more likely to misbehave. Instead, try to use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
  • Ignoring your toddler. If your toddler is getting fussy, ignoring them will only make the situation worse. Instead, try to engage with them and offer them some attention.
  • Losing your temper. It is important to remember that your toddler is not trying to be difficult on purpose. They are simply reacting to the situation in the best way they know how. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a deep breath and try to calm down.

Q: What are some tips for traveling with a toddler?

A: Here are a few tips for traveling with a toddler:

  • Pack light. The less you have to carry, the easier it will be to get around the airport with your toddler.
  • Bring along plenty of snacks. Your toddler is likely to get hungry during the flight, so make sure to bring along plenty of snacks.
  • Wear comfortable clothes. You will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable clothes that you can move around in easily.
  • Bring along a stroller. A stroller will be helpful for getting your toddler around the airport and on the plane.

* **Book a seat near

there are a number of things you can do to keep your toddler entertained on a plane. By providing them with age-appropriate activities, snacks, and comfort items, you can help them make the most of their flight. By following these tips, you can help your toddler have a positive experience flying, which will make the whole trip more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

  • Provide your toddler with age-appropriate activities, such as books, toys, and games.
  • Pack snacks that your toddler will enjoy and that will help them stay hydrated.
  • Bring along comfort items, such as a blanket, pillow, and pacifier.
  • Talk to your toddler about the flight and what to expect.
  • Be patient and understanding if your toddler gets upset or restless.
  • Enjoy your time with your toddler and make the most of your flight!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.