TL;DR: When flying with toddlers, the key is to bring compact, quiet, and engaging toys to keep them entertained throughout the flight. Ideal options include sticker books, magnetic drawing boards, small puzzles, quiet electronic toys with headphones, and foldable play mats with travel themes. These toys should captivate their attention without disturbing fellow passengers, ensuring a smoother travel experience for everyone.
Traveling with toddlers can be a daunting task, especially when it involves long hours on a plane. The confined space, restricted movement, and the need to be considerate of other passengers make it crucial to select the right toys to keep little ones entertained. Here's a guide to the best toys for toddlers on a plane, focusing on portability, engagement, and quiet play.
Sticker Books
Sticker books are a fantastic option for plane travel. They're lightweight, compact, and can provide hours of entertainment. Look for books with reusable stickers to extend their usability. Themes such as animals, vehicles, and favorite cartoon characters can engage toddlers' interests and imaginations.
Magnetic Drawing Boards
A magnetic drawing board or a doodle pad allows toddlers to draw, erase, and redraw without the mess of crayons or markers. They're perfect for practicing drawing skills, writing letters, or just doodling, offering a quiet way to keep busy.
Small Puzzles
Compact puzzles made of wood or durable cardboard that can fit on a tray table are ideal for travel. Choose puzzles with a low number of pieces to avoid frustration and the potential for lost pieces. Puzzles are great for cognitive development and can be a peaceful activity for toddlers.
Quiet Electronic Toys (with Headphones)
If you opt for electronic toys, choose those that can be used with headphones to avoid disturbing other passengers. Educational games or apps on a tablet can be both entertaining and informative. Ensure any electronic device is charged and consider bringing a portable battery charger.
Foldable Play Mats
Portable, foldable play mats with different scenes (like a cityscape or a jungle) can be laid out on the tray table or in your lap, providing a base for imaginative play with small toy cars, animals, or figurines. This setup can keep a toddler engaged in storytelling play.
Travel-themed Activity Kits
Activity kits that are themed around travel can be both entertaining and educational. These kits can include coloring books, simple crafts, or activities that teach about airplanes and airports, helping toddlers understand and get excited about the travel process.
Soft Books and Quiet Activity Books
Soft books or quiet activity books with zippers, buttons, and different textures can be great for sensory play without making noise. They're also lightweight and easy to pack.
In Conclusion
Choosing the right toys for toddlers on a plane can transform a potentially stressful flight into an enjoyable adventure. By selecting toys that are compact, engaging, and considerate of the airplane's confined environment, you can ensure a more peaceful and pleasant travel experience for you, your toddler, and your fellow passengers.