I often hear from non-parents who express their disdain for flying alongside children. They complain about kids kicking seats, crying unexpectedly, or simply staring at them in anticipation of attention. I listen patiently, nodding along as they voice their grievances. It’s as if they expect an apology from parents everywhere. However, let’s be clear: no one finds air travel with kids more challenging than their own parents. Nonetheless, flying with children is a reality we all face. Here are some common sentiments I’ve encountered from non-parents, along with what I’d like to say if I weren’t so diplomatic:
“I was on a flight, and a baby cried the entire time. How hard is it to keep them quiet?”
On a plane? Quite difficult, actually. Here’s a little insight: babies often struggle to equalize their ear pressure during the flight, leading to discomfort. The last time I traveled with a baby, I was given ear drops that seemed more like water than anything effective. Despite my best efforts, if my baby cries the whole flight and some uninformed individual glares at me like I’m at fault for not soothing them, I’d kindly remind you that Grandma is waiting for a baby cuddle.
“Every time I fly, I end up behind a parent with a stroller at security. It almost made me miss my flight. Do they really need all that stuff?”
Do you genuinely require a neck pillow and multiple gadgets to entertain yourself on a four-hour flight? Probably not. But consider how difficult it is to keep a child entertained when their attention span is minimal. Additionally, there’s the need to keep them fed and clean. I once faced a situation in an airport where two of my kids had sudden stomach issues, resulting in a lengthy delay. Finding diapers at that moment was nearly impossible. If I hadn’t been prepared, you would have been stuck next to an unfortunate situation, all while thinking, “How hard is it to bring enough diapers?”
“I sat next to a mom who started breastfeeding her baby during the flight. Can’t she wait?”
While this may have offended you, I assume you had snacks to keep you occupied throughout the flight. Babies have needs too, and they certainly don’t want to be hungry. Think about it for a second.
“That toddler threw a major tantrum mid-flight. Parents should teach their kids how to behave.”
Let’s be honest: who wouldn’t feel like throwing a tantrum in such cramped quarters? While it’s uncomfortable for everyone, remember that adults have learned to manage their emotions, while toddlers are still figuring it out. How about being the bigger person here? Slip on those headphones, grab your neck pillow, and try to relax.
“Why can’t parents just wait until their kids are older to travel?”
Are you implying that there should be an age restriction on flying? Are we suggesting that grandparents shouldn’t see their grandchildren during holidays or important family events simply because some might find it inconvenient? Families need to travel. Children exist in this world, and flying is part of that experience.
So, please save your snarky remarks and judgmental looks. Parents don’t enjoy traveling with kids either; it’s a shared struggle. The reality is that travel will happen, so you might as well put on your headphones, read your book, indulge in your snacks, and accept it.
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Summary:
Flying with children can be a challenge for both parents and non-parents alike. While it’s easy to point fingers at parents when kids act out, it’s crucial to understand the difficulties involved in traveling with little ones. Patience and understanding can go a long way in making the travel experience more pleasant for everyone involved.