1.)Since you already have to buy a seat for your daughter, I advise using a CRS (Child Restraint System) because it is safe for the child, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, and gives you the opportunity to relax a bit.
A CRS is an airline-approved alternative to using a hard-backed seat and is approved for use on aircraft and for use in motor vehicles. Many people confuse it with a regular car seat, which it is not.
http://faa.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faa.cfg/鈥?/a>
This website talks about approved CRS devices and their ratings: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/I鈥?/a>
Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device. Parents should call their airline to ask for a discount and/or ask what the airline's policy is for using empty seats.
Ask your airline if they can provide a CRS for your child. If so, you may not be permitted to bring your own CRS on board, and may need to check it as baggage.
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_childr鈥?/a>
2.) The best time of day to fly is whenever you are comfortable. If you can find a flight that will take off around your childs nap or bedtime, that would be easier, but of course we all know it doesn't always work out that way. The main thing is that you pick a day that you are comfortable with and try to be as relaxed as possible because your daughter will be able to pick up on any anxiousness or anxiety you might have.
3.) For take-offs and landings, the best thing you can do is give her a drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter) or a pacifier.
New regulations allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz, OR beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food onto the plane with you. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/p鈥?/a>
Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.
Another trick is that if your daughter is not taking to the pacifier or wanting to drink, gently rub her neck from the chin down to the chest several times - this will cause a swallowing motion which will help with the ears popping.
4.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your daughter. A few of her favorite toys, books, a portable DVD player and one or two movies if you have one, and any comfort things such as a blankie. The Fa's will also provide you with a toy or coloring book for your daughter also.
5.)Take your daughter to the store and buy her a small carry-on bag of her choice. Let her pick out a few new (but inexpensive) toys that will be used only once she is on the plane. Be sure to buy a few without her knowing so she will have a surprise when she opens up her bag.
6.) Pack a few instant hot/cold cereals, instant rice, and other just-add-water packets (age appropriate, of course). The stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water upon request. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food and a few other non-perishable snack items. Dried fruit make a wonderful snack (and they're healthy too!). Drinks will be provided free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request.
7.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your daughter. You will need this in case she gets sick, spills something on herself, or in case your luggage gets lost. Also bring any medications that you might need for her should she get sick. Do NOT give your daughter medicine with the hopes of it making her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.
8.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.
I hope you have a great trip, and if I can be of any more assistance, please feel free to contact me.
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