Tuesday, June 4, 2024 With school holidays fast approaching, many families are gearing up for travel. While vacations are delightful, the experience can quickly sour when you’re seated in front of a child determined to turn your seat into a soccer ball. Misbehaving kids on planes can be a significant annoyance for travelers.
James Dooley, an experienced entrepreneur and backer of Soft Surfaces, shares his top tips to mitigate this travel discomfort and ensure a more pleasant journey for everyone. “A gentle and polite request often works wonders,” says James. “Parents are usually unaware of their child’s actions and are willing to intervene once they are informed.
” Sometimes, acknowledging the child and engaging them in a friendly manner can help. James suggests, “A simple ‘Hi there, are you excited about your trip?’ can create a positive interaction, making the child less likely to kick out of boredom or frustration.” If the child is having difficulty settling down, offering to swap seats with the parent can be effective.
“Parents often appreciate this gesture as it allows them to better manage their child’s behavior,” notes James. Carrying small toys, coloring books, or electronic devices with child-friendly content can be a lifesaver. “Offering a toy or suggesting a game on their device can keep the child entertained,” says James.
Placing a cushion or blanket between the seat and your back can absorb some of the impact and make it less botherso.