Little hands and feet can get hurt from passing passengers or the food and beverage cart, and children should not be grabbing at people or property. It’s hard to sit still for so long, but a couple of small pillows, a blanket, and a stuffed animal can make all the difference. A comfy kid will also be less likely to want to leave their seat or kick the backs of others’ seats. Feel free to use the in-flight options, but don’t depend on them since their favorite game or show might not be available. Bring a portable game console, a phone loaded with music and audiobooks, stickers, playing cards, puzzle books, blank paper, and pencils.  For more educational activities, have them plan a vacation using travel pamphlets or review your itinerary again. Introduce books, flashcards, and other learning materials suitable for your child’s age. If you have school-age children, ask their teacher what he or she suggests. Pack a small surprise gift for them, such as a new coloring book and crayons. This will help pique their interest in a new activity and fight off boredom. Infants only require breast milk or formula, and make sure you have bottled water if you need to mix formula on the plane. For older kids, provide low-sugar options such as cereal, puff snacks, plain pasta, sandwiches, granola bars, dried fruit, and snack pouches. Avoid items that need refrigeration, melty or crumbly foods, and bananas and avocados as they turn into brown mush in a bag. There are rules about the amount and type of liquids or gels that can be carried past security, but exceptions are sometimes made for bottles, juice boxes and sippy-cups. Make sure that you mention these items to the TSA agent before going through security and that you place them in their own quart-size zip-top bag. Compliment them on their ability to sit still, stay quiet, and respect others. Clearly define your expectations for their behavior long before your journey starts, and provide options for rewards if they behave well. If they behave poorly, do not give them negative attention by yelling or spanking them, as they may see that behavior as a way to get more attention. Instead, give a firm “no” and explain why their actions were not right. Redirect their attention to a positive and engaging activity after disciplining them. Try not to show frustration if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Kids can be influenced by the moods of their caregivers, and your stress can turn into their stress quickly.

Summary:
Seat your child away from the aisle. Make your child comfortable. Provide a variety of entertainment. Bring lots of snacks. Reward good behavior and use consistent discipline. Stay calm.