For parents traveling on air planes with infants and tots this Thanksgiving, plan ahead with these handy tips:  

 


• Travel with a backpack so your hands are free for the kids

• Try to schedule a feeding for departure time.  This way, the sucking motion will make Baby’s ears pop and he won’t be uncomfortable during takeoff.

• Have everyone wear slip-on shoes so you’re not stuck tying shoes after security clearance

• Consider taking a portable DVD player or laptop with you.  Sometimes even with all the snacks, sippy cups and small toys, nothing occupies tots better than a movie (just remember, if you’re bringing a laptop that it’s fully charged!) 

• Bring one complete change of clothing for your little ones in their carry ons in case something gets spilled on them while traveling.

• Have inexpensive, small toys on hand that you can fit in your carry-on.  Some favorites include travel size Magna Doodle, picture books and hand puppets

• Be sure you have your travel documents in a safe but easily accessible place.