topic of discussion...TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN

There has been a lot of press in the past year regarding parents being deplaned due to an unruly child. So being that I will be traveling this week. I figured I'd open up a panel for discussion over how to handle travel with small children.

I personally have found in the five years of being a parent that car trips are best. However, within this day and age. With this military life that we live in, it is simply not feasible at all times. So to the airport we must go.

So I've compiled some simple tips and rules for anyone to take advantage of.

Number one....Travel with more than one Adult. When possible always bring a friend or Hubby on the trip with you. It honestly makes life sooo much simpler. But this is not always possible...so...

Number Two...When traveling solo with small children do not be scared to ask others for help. I found it rather interesting on my last trip. Going through the security check point at the Philadelphia airport with two small children, a stroller, and 3 bags...I must have looked a mess to those around me. I got help from not one, but two other airport goers. The girl in front of me helped me collapse and put the stroller up on the conveyor belt for the x-ray machine, and the gentleman behind me assisted my oldest in getting the trays and putting her bag and shoes in them, then all together we pushed through to the "gateway to freedom!" I actually did not ask, but stopped and realized that if they did NOT help me, everyone behind me would have had to wait on me! So it was in THEIR interest to help out! lol. Same goes for airport personnel though...they are there and get paid to help!!! Don't let them tell you otherwise!

Number three...Sounds horrible to some parents, BUT... giving a baby or a small toddler some Motrin or Tylenol approximately 30 minutes before the flight cuts down on the amount of pain they may feel at take off. It also helps them relax.

Number four...for infants and toddlers make sure you have a bottle on hand to help them swallow when their ears start to pop. For older children, have gum or tootsie rolls (or similar) on hand for the same reason.

Number five...ALWAYS pack a carry on bag as if you are taking an over night trip with at least 1 change of clothes for yourself, AT LEAST one for each child (more if it's an infant), and essentials like formula food, money...etc. You never know when you'll hit a layover, and by this time...the airport already has your luggage!

Number six...For older children make sure you pack some type of activity for them to do one the plane. Even a two hour flight gets old to a five year old! For the little ones. Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and a toy or two (age specific) try things that don't necessarily make noise to not annoy other passengers.

Number Seven...pack your kids favorite goodies. Sugar them up baby!!!! Make them happy, who cares that they haven't had lunch yet, who cares that they'll spoil their dinner. The only thing that matters is keeping them happy. Most children are not satisfied by the junk...er...snacks provided by the airline. Also, if your child does not drink soda or juice like mine...ask the flight attendant for water or milk (some of the airlines do carry the milk boxes that are out now that look like juice boxes.)

Number eight...Take advantage of early boarding. You have an infant. You have the right to be one of the first people on the plane along with all those who are rich enough to afford the expensive seats! This way you get on the plane while it is fairly empty and it feels less claustrophobic to the children. Lots of bodies make little ones nervous! this gives them a chance to look around and get comfortable with the new environment.

Number nine...If the kids gotta go...IGNORE THE SEAT BELT SIGN! Some flight attendants are more apt to be a pain in the you know what than others. The bulk of them however realize that with long flights, and beverages...comes the inevitable potty break. Same goes for if the baby is REALLY fussy. If you feel that it is safe to be up, then don't worry about it...it is only a warning.

Number ten...When having to take long flights...do overnights!!! I have found in the many times that we have flown cross country it is so much easier on the child if it is a red eye. The child will automatically sleep because it is his or her natural bed time. You have to entertain them less, and they wake up in a new place. It's so much more relaxing to them. Now to the parents...not so much. The last trip we took I slept maybe...oh I dunno...about 3 hours out of the whole flight. That was for different reasons though, I was placed on the isle seat with my infant fast asleep in my arms and the attendants kept coming by with the carts, and I was scared they would hit her on the head. So, I'd also recommend, sitting on the window side.

Well, I hope this helps those scared first time moms who will be traveling soon. In all honesty, you gotta do what works for you. In the end, make sure you and your child are as comfortable as possible, get to the airport early, and try to get through the security lines when there is no one else there.

And do not EVER allow an airline to throw you off a flight. You paid for the flight just like the next Joe. You have the right to fly and so does your child. But at the same time...also be overly kind to the attendants...they are just doing their job...even if they do have attitudes sometimes.