Charlie is smack dab in the middle of the terrible twos which means that we are dealing with a high energy toddler prone to major meltdowns. They can strike at anytime and anywhere: plane, train or resort restaurant…when he asked for french fries but now doesn’t want the french fries…especially if they are touching his chicken.
Airport and airplane tantrums may be the worst. Not only am I angry when he screams from his seat, everyone around me is angry too. In long customs lines or waiting for luggage, his wailing grates on my nerves and I can feel every other weary traveler shooting daggers my way.
I see everyone cringe as I get on the plane with a baby and while part of me says, ‘It’s a baby. Babies cry. If you wanted a baby-less flight, fly private,’ another part of me wants to say, ‘Ya. I get it. I’m scared too.’
When on vacation, days are long, usually spent outside and in new, often over stimulating environments. Sleep areas are different, there is sugary food and drink everywhere and how can you give a time out on the beach?! This can be tough space for toddlers who crave routine and repetition.
I get it.
During a particularly awful flight connection in Atlanta (NEVER connect in Atlanta…in fact, just fly direct), I started thinking. Layovers, early flight times, long days in the sun, uncomfortable surroundings, long lines are a struggle for fully functioning adults so it only makes sense that toddlers can’t cope. I get grumpy and irritable in these situations- I cannot ask my two year old son to remain painfully positive when I can’t do it myself.
So I prepare ahead of time: Paw Patrol for the toddler on the plane; snacks, snacks, snacks; books, stickers and crayons; a cheap but exciting toy. I’ve also discovered that my imagination and ability to make up a song and game almost anywhere, are key to toddler survival. A distracted, sleeping or eating baby is a quiet baby.
Quite a few airports have ‘family focused’ lines through security and customs and to me, that makes sense. Every airport should understand and accommodate family travelers. You cannot rationalize ‘waiting for an hour in a non-air conditioned terminal to get your suitcase’ to a toddler.
Tantrums while traveling will happen. They are inevitable.
Keeping your little one fed, watered and rested (as much as is in your control) is always the best option. Sometimes this works and sometimes it doesn’t – Toddlers are unpredictable and there are often elements that are 100% out of your control.
In those instances, just let it ride (this too shall pass)…and remember that you’re on vacation.