Taking the Kids™
When They're Flying Solo
Join the club.
Every year, some 300,000 kids fly solo without their parents on Southwest. That’s among the most on any airline. Many are frequent fliers who routinely wing their way between cities and parents. Others are flying to visit relatives, friends or to camp and school. Here’s what parents need to know to make their flight a fun adventure rather than an ordeal:
- STAY COOL because if you act nervous, the kids will be nervous too. If you’re upbeat, they’ll be enthusiastic too. Tell them how proud you are of them. Reassure them they’ll be well cared for until daddy or grandma meets them at the gate.
- IF IT’S THEIR FIRST TIME flying solo, explain how the system works, from the gate agent escorting them on board, to a Southwest employee staying with them until they are met. Remind them to speak up if they have a problem.
- STASH A CARD in their backpack with their flight information as well as phone numbers where you can be reached as well as those meeting them. Include a back-up emergency number for a friend or relative.
- SURPRISE them with a new toy, game or CD to help keep them busy during the flight. Check out Hasbro’s electronic travel games that can be played solo like Candy Land or Battleship that come with batteries included. (www.Hasbro.com) Whether they’re six or 16, make sure they’ve got enough in their backpack to entertain themselves. The flight attendants won’t have time to play with them. Write a note saying how much you love them.
- AVOID HUNGER PANGS by packing their favorite school lunch. Don’t forget to include a treat or two, a water bottle and some gum they can chew when the plane takes off and lands to alleviate pressure on their ears.
- PLAY THE “WHAT IF” GAME so they’re prepared just in case mom isn’t there to meet them, the flight is diverted, they feel sick. If they’re old enough, give them a cell phone for the trip so they aren’t out of touch.
- STUFF A SWEATSHIRT or fleece in their backpack, along with an extra tee shirt in case they need one.
- GIVE A BIG HUG even if they cringe.
- STAY PUT at the airport until you know their flight has taken off.
By: Eileen Ogintz
