5 Ways to Ease Your Child's Worry About Flying, ...from a Mental Health Therapist

As a mental health therapist that specializes in anxiety and trauma and as a mom, I know first hand the worries that little ones might feel about flying. Especially if it's their 1st time, there can be a lot of unknowns which in children can cause uncomfortable feelings.

Here are 5 ways to help your child manage their worrying before a flight:

Here are 5 ways to help your child manage their worrying before a flight:

1. Talk about the trip & what to expect on the plane:

Share that sometimes the ride can be smooth or bumpy, the lights get turned off at night time & sometimes the flight can be quiet or a little more noisy. Kids do best when they know exactly what to expect.

2. Prepare them with books & videos:

I love YouTube because you can find just about anything! Some of their favorite shows may even have episodes about flying. Peppa Pig has a great episode about being nervous to fly for the 1st time.

3. Take a field trip to the airport:

Before the trip, park near an airport & watch the planes taking off and landing. It will help them get used to the sound of planes and how big they are.

4. Bring a toy that’s special for the plane:

We bought our daughter a toy unicorn we named Passport and during the flight she combs its mane, plays with it, and takes care of it.

5. Give them some control:

Part of the worry around flying for kids is the fear of the unknown and not being in control of their environment. Let them control the things they can such as what they wear that day, what snacks they bring, and what shows or movies to download onto their electronics.

If you're on instagram, follow us @talesofatravelfamily for more tips and ideas for traveling with kids.