15 Best Toddler Airplane Activities For Long Flights
Picture this: you’re packed and ready to embark on a long-awaited vacation, but the thought of being trapped on a plane for hours with a squirming and restless toddler in tow is enough to make you cancel the trip altogether.
But fear not, weary parents! With a little preparation and some creative thinking, you can keep your little one entertained and content during those long flights. As we all know, toddlers are curious creatures with short attention spans, but fear not, because I have compiled a list of the best toddler airplane activities that are sure to keep your little one happily occupied.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn how to turn your child’s flight experience from a nightmare into a dream come true.
Flying with a toddler or younger children can be a daunting task, especially on a long-haul flight. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or flying off for a special occasion, it can bring on all sorts of stress and anxiety before you even get to the airport.
Don’t worry though, you are not alone, we have all been there and many of us have had those moments where you just want the ground to swallow you up because your toddler has had a tantrum in the queue to board or shouted for 10 whole minutes on takeoff because they don’t want to be strapped in. However, we all got back on the plane again and approached it a little differently the second time around.
If you are planning your first trip with your toddler on a plane, you are probably looking for ways to keep them entertained and comfortable on the flight to ensure a stress-free journey for both you and your fellow passengers.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveller looking for new ideas, we’ve got you covered with the best toddler aeroplane activities to keep those little hands busy. From sticker books to fun card games, these simple aeroplane activities are designed to make your flight a breeze.
15 Best Toddler Airplane Activities For Long Flights
1. Sticker Books: A Great Way to Start
Sticker books are a fantastic option for keeping toddlers entertained. With a variety of themes and the ability to stick and re-stick, these books are a brilliant way to engage their creativity and fine motor skills. Plus, they’re lightweight and easy to pack, making them the best travel toys for little ones. Sticker books allow toddlers to create their own little world on each page, and the repetitive action of peeling and sticking is a great fine motor activity that will keep them busy for a long time.
If your toddler has a favourite cartoon or character, see if you are able to get the sticker book in that theme.
2. Wikki Stix for Creative Play
Wikki Stix is a great activity for toddlers on a long flight. These bendable wax sticks can be shaped into endless creations, providing a quiet and mess-free way to spark their imagination. They’re perfect for travel as they take up minimal space and offer hours of entertainment. The tactile nature of Wikki Stix makes them a great option for younger toddlers, helping to develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination in a fun and engaging way.
3. Water Wow Books for Mess-Free Colouring
Colouring is a classic toddler activity, but traditional colouring books can be messy in the confined space of an aeroplane. Enter Water Wow books – a brilliant invention that allows kids to paint with water, revealing vibrant colours without any mess. A great fine motor activity, these books are reusable once they dry, making them a favourite travel toy among parents. Water Wow books come in a variety of themes and are a fun way to keep your toddler entertained while also stimulating their creativity.
4. Quiet Books for Hands-On Fun
Quiet books, packed with interactive pages of different activities, are a great idea for long flights. They can include elements like buttons, zippers, and flaps, which help develop fine motor skills while keeping toddlers engaged. Look for ones with different themes that your child loves. These books are not only a great way to keep your toddler entertained, but they also encourage independent play and exploration, making them a must-have for long-haul flights.
5. Finger Puppets for Imaginative Play
Finger puppets are an easy airplane activity that encourages imaginative play. Create stories and characters together, or use them to act out favourite tales. They’re compact and provide great entertainment for young children, making them a must-have in your toddler plane activities kit. Toddlers love the opportunity to use their imagination and finger puppets are a great way to encourage this type of play while also keeping them entertained for a long time.
6. Toy Cars for Endless Rolling Fun
Toy cars are perfect for tray table play. Toddlers can roll them around and create little adventures. They’re a great option for keeping little ones busy without taking up too much space in your carry-on. Consider bringing a small play mat to go along with the toy cars, which can add an extra layer of fun and creativity to this activity.
7. Window Clings: A Fun Way to Decorate
Window clings are a simple and fun way to entertain toddlers by letting them decorate the aeroplane windows. They’re reusable and can be repositioned multiple times, providing a quiet and engaging activity that allows for creativity. This activity is a great way to keep your toddler entertained while also keeping them in their seat and engaged with their surroundings.
8. Busy Boards for Engaging Play
Busy boards are packed with interactive components like latches, knobs, and switches that are ideal for developing fine motor skills. These boards can be customised to include your child’s favourite activities and are a great idea for long-haul flights. Busy boards are not only entertaining, but they also encourage problem-solving and independent play, making them a great option for keeping your toddler busy during the flight.
9. Card Games for Older Toddlers
For older toddlers, simple card games can be an awesome way to pass the time. Games like Snap or Go Fish are easy to understand and can be played repeatedly, making them one of the best aeroplane game toys for slightly older kids. These games are a great way to encourage social interaction and turn-taking, while also providing a fun and engaging activity for your toddler during the flight.
10. Lots of Snacks for Happy Tummies
While not exactly an activity, having a variety of snacks is crucial for keeping toddlers content during a long flight. Choose snacks that are easy to eat and won’t make a mess, such as cereal bars, cheese sticks, and crackers. Snacks can also serve as a good distraction when needed. Consider packing a few new snacks that your toddler hasn’t tried before to add an extra element of surprise and excitement. One thing that has become popular is a little snack box that has moveable dividers, this allows you the chance to add in a variety of snacks but minimal containers.
11. Colouring Pages and Activity Books
Bring along some colouring pages and activity books to keep your toddler engaged. These can include simple puzzles, mazes, and dot-to-dot activities that are age-appropriate. They’re a great way to encourage creativity and learning during the flight. Consider printing out some free colouring pages from the internet before your trip to add variety to your toddler’s activity options. We always used to pack a new colouring book and pencils for our long haul flight and it was one of the best activities for our two children.
12. Small Toys for Big Fun
Pack a few small toys that your child hasn’t seen before. New things can capture their attention for a long time, and the novelty can make them more engaging. Consider small figures or dolls that can spark imaginative play. These toys are a great way to keep your toddler entertained while also encouraging creativity and imaginative play. When it comes to the new toys, it is a good idea to make sure they don’t need any batteries or have too many sounds or lights, trust me, you will want to throw them when you get off the plane!
13. Screen Time as a Last Resort
While it’s often best to limit screen time, a tablet loaded with educational games or favourite shows can be a lifesaver on a long-haul flight. This is particularly useful during moments when other activities have run their course. Just make sure to have headphones to keep the volume down. Consider downloading a few new shows or apps before your trip to add an extra element of excitement for your toddler.
14. Interactive Apps for Engaging Play
Consider downloading a few toddler-friendly apps that offer interactive learning experiences. These apps can be a great complement to other activities and can help keep your child entertained during quieter moments of the flight. Look for apps that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and independent play to provide your toddler with a well-rounded and engaging experience.
15. Storytime with a Favourite Book
A quiet storytime session with a favourite book can be a comforting and calming activity for toddlers. Choose a book with engaging illustrations and a captivating story to help them settle down during the flight. Consider bringing along a few new books to add an element of surprise and excitement to this activity.
These simple plane activities can work on a long-haul flight or a short-haul flight and work with older children too!
Making the Most of the Flight Experience
Taking to the skies with a toddler can feel like a daunting adventure, but with a little preparation and the right mindset, it can be a delightful journey. Picture this: a stress-free flight where your little one is entertained, comfortable, and maybe even sleeping peacefully. Let’s dive into the world of toddler-friendly flying and discover how to make the most of your flight experience.
Flying is not just about reaching the destination; it can be an exciting adventure for children too. For a child’s first flight, explain the process in simple terms. Talk about what flight attendants do, like serving meals, and how the aeroplane works. Encourage your toddler to look out of the window and describe what they see. The hum of the engines, the view from the window seat, and the experience of flying above the clouds can be magical for young minds.
Being able to fly opens up a world of adventure for children young and old and the flight is all part of this experience. From the experience in the airport to the flight itself, everything can be an adventure, especially through the eyes of children so make the most of that. Yes it can be challenging at times but the more you can relax and enjoy the experience with them, the more fun it will become.
Comfort is key, so dress your toddler in layers. Airplane temperatures can be unpredictable, and having options will ensure your child is cosy throughout the flight. Also, bring a familiar blanket or stuffed animal to provide comfort and a touch of home.
Managing Challenges During the Flight
Flying with toddlers can be an adventure in itself, filled with potential ups and downs that require a parent’s full attention and creativity. But fear not! With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can transform a potentially stressful flight into a smooth sailing journey for both you and your little one.
Before you even step onto the plane, preparation is key. Start by choosing flights that align with your toddler’s schedule. Opt for flights during their nap time or when they’re usually in high spirits. Booking a window seat can also be a great distraction, offering them a view of the clouds and the world below. Ensure you have a well-stocked carry-on bag packed with essentials like snacks, favourite toys, and a cosy blanket. Snacks can be a lifesaver, keeping tiny tummies satisfied and little hands occupied.
Once aboard, remember that comfort is paramount. Dress your toddler in layers to easily adjust to the plane’s temperature changes. Introducing a new toy or book can spark curiosity and keep them engaged. If they’re feeling restless, a quick walk up and down the aisle can offer a change of scenery and burn off some energy. Don’t hesitate to use technology to your advantage—loaded tablets with their favourite shows can be a delightful distraction.
Dealing with ear pressure during takeoff and landing can be tricky, but a simple sip of water or a pacifier can help alleviate discomfort. Encourage older toddlers to yawn or chew a small snack. It’s also wise to inform the flight attendants that you’re travelling with a toddler; they often have extra tricks up their sleeves and can offer assistance when needed.
Finally, keep your cool and stay positive. Toddlers can sense stress, so maintaining a calm demeanour can help soothe any anxiety they might feel. Celebrate small victories, like a peaceful nap or a new fascination with the aeroplane safety card. With patience and a bit of humour, you’ll find that flying with toddlers isn’t just manageable—it can be a delightful part of your travel adventure.
Remember that things will go wrong at some point, you may find the flight is delayed or your toddler just doesn’t want to nap. Take a deep breath, I know it is easier said than done but remember, these flight attendants have probably seen it all before it is likely to not be the first time they have seen a toddler meltdown too! Most of the time, the most judgemental person in your parenting will be yourself, give yourself a little break.
Happy travels and safe skies await you and your little co-pilot! Remember, every trip is a new story to tell, and with each flight, you’ll become an even more seasoned traveller. Enjoy the journey, and don’t forget to share your experiences and tips with fellow travelling families!
