Do you remember what it was like the first time you watched a city recede beneath you, the houses and cars and people becoming smaller and smaller? I had forgotten, but I remembered last weekend as my granddaughter pressed her nose to the cold glass trying to get as close as she could to the view.
I’ve noticed before that my enjoyment of an experience is much enhanced when I share it with a child, and flying with grandchildren is an excellent way to discover that.
My five year old granddaughter and I flew to San Diego last weekend for a family celebration. Her mother couldn’t get away, but when it appeared that she would be left behind also, Bean spoke up, making it quite clear that she wanted to go with Grandma. This was a first time experience for both of us, but her parents’ preparation and guidance helped to make it a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Pack entertainment in a carry-on
Generally, it’s a good idea to check as much baggage as you can and board with your hands free. But a back pack for each of you can include a change of clothes, toys, books, and, for older children, a headset and tablet loaded with games, movies, and e-books. When my parents and I went on car trips during my childhood, Mom often brought out a brand new toy to keep me occupied. Following her example, I packed a new coloring book and colored pencils, a new mermaid chapter book, and a puffy sticker story book. My daughter packed more familiar toys and games in Bean’s bright orange backpack (a great aid to keeping sight of her in the crowded boarding area), an iPad with newly downloaded movies, and volume-controlled headphones.
Several snacks should also be tucked into the carry-ons, since children’s appetites rarely match airline schedules. Also a complete change of clothes, a favorite stuffed animal, and a small blanket. Babies benefit from sucking on a pacifier or bottle during take-off and landing; older children may find that a hard candy or piece of gum can afford the same ear-clearing comfort. For young children who are still transitioning between breast or bottle and other drink containers, bring straws or juice boxes (purchased after security screening), and/or sippy cups. Moist hand wipes and tissues will help with the inevitable sticky hands.
Documents to Take
Airlines differ in their policies, and it’s best to take more documents than to wind up without one that they ask for during check-in or security. At a minimum, have a copy of a birth certificate for each child and a notarized letter from the parents giving permission to travel (be specific if you will be crossing state or international borders) and to obtain medical care. If the parents are divorced or have different surnames from the child, the letters should be signed by both parents.
In addition to permissions, ask parents to provide applicable prescription information, insurance cards, ID numbers, and medical providers’ contact information.
International travel requires passports; those can take several weeks to obtain, so be sure they are applied for in plenty of time. Many countries require visas and vaccinations. Some travel authorities recommend passports for everyone, since they are the ultimate identification; if it’s practical to take those with you, it can’t hurt.
Where to Sit
Parents and grandparents experienced at traveling with children differ in their recommendations of where to sit. Some prefer bulkhead seats, which offer more leg room, and perhaps even space to sit on the floor and color or play with toys. Taking an airline-approved car seat on board can give a child a comfortable place from which to look out the window, but it’s one more thing for Grandma or Grandpa to carry.
Other parents suggest sitting in the rear of the airplane, where there are fewer business travelers and often earlier boarding; thus less waiting in line. We flew on an airline with an open seating policy, so Bean made a dash for the first window seat and I followed her. On our return flight the same strategy bagged a seat on the wing, which didn’t afford much of a view. Lesson learned.
Be at your best
Traveling with children is a challenge, but one that offers the reward of priceless memories and sometimes a closer bond. But the adults in charge need to be at their best. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep before embarking on what will undoubtedly be a tiring trip. Feed yourself as well as the children; remember to take your regular meds and vitamins; be your very best, most patient self. It’s almost inevitable that one or more of your grandchildren will have a meltdown before the journey is over. Make sure you don’t have one too.
Experience the adventure through the eyes of the youngsters you are traveling with; don’t try to lose yourself in a book or behind a set of earphones. (A lightweight magazine is probably better reading material. You aren’t as likely to get engrossed in it.)
Once through security, play games in the terminal that don’t need equipment, like I Spy or We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. 
Ask for the kids’ menu at the airport restaurant and take it out while you’re waiting for the plane to arrive. Once on the plane, settle the children in before you buckle your own seatbelt, get out the first installment of snacks and entertainment and prepare to have the time of your life.
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