Traveling with children is not an easy undertaking and can be stressful for parents, especially when flying. Airlines are making efforts to improve the passenger experience for families and make air travel more enjoyable. Yet, most passengers would confess that they hope they are not seated next to a wailing newborn or a rowdy child for the whole of the trip. Is there anything a flight attendant can do to aid if this happens?
Empathy
However, we cannot completely avoid these scenarios, and there will be instances of toddlers becoming disruptive or kicking the seat back. In the first instance, it is preferable to be sympathetic to the parents, who are most likely already stressed. If you can utilise humour or make a light comment instead of being harsh, the parents are more likely to be sympathetic and settle the child. No matter what the situation, empathy usually goes a long way.
Babies
Of course, we can’t do much about crying or screaming newborns, but we can try to be compassionate. Infants are more vulnerable during ascent and descent, when pressure affects their hearing. Offering the infant something to eat or drink will assist relieve stress and make them feel less distressed.
If you feel so inclined, you may volunteer to assist the parents by holding the infant for a brief period of time. If necessary, most airlines carry a small quantity of baby food, milk formula, and diapers. Several airlines provide infant meals as part of their service and may provide soft toys for babies.
Distraction
If a kid is being disruptive in any way, try to be gentle at first and recognise that the parent is doing their best. Diversion is crucial, so supplying some sweets or snacks (with parental permission, of course) or something to play with may be beneficial. Letting them paint a picture, play a game, or read a book may prevent children from kicking the seat or engaging in other undesirable behaviour.
When to call a flight attendant
If a child is being difficult and his or her parents are doing nothing to help, a flight attendant will likely notice and ask the parent or parents if they require anything. If available, this may be a drink, snack, or toy. There is no problem if the parent is actively attempting to calm the child.
A passenger can request assistance from a flight attendant with a troublesome child, but what they can do is limited. A flight attendant’s scolding could be completely taken out of context, especially with social media, putting the flight attendant in a tough position.
Safety issue?
It is a safety hazard if a child climbs over or beneath the seats, refuses to wear a seat belt, or continually presses the call bell. In this scenario, the flight attendant might gently ask the child to stop the conduct. This is generally sufficient, and parents are usually very responsive.
If it is a safety problem, such as not wearing a seatbelt during takeoff and landing, a flight attendant will be adamant. They are in charge of passenger safety onboard and will explain why the child must be confined during vital stages of flight, and the parent must obey.
Airlines
Airlines mostly have in-flight entertainment onboard and there will be a selection of cartoons, family movies and children’s programs to keep them entertained. Some have learning experiences and bedtime stories also. Most airlines offer activity packs or coloring sets for children to keep them busy. Airlines such as Emirates and British Airways, have schemes especially aimed at children with gifts like activity packs, soft toys and backpacks.
Some airlines offer their young ones, logbooks to count their flying hours and some have play areas at the airport. Airlines like Gulf Air and Etihad Airways have a ‘sky nanny’ service onboard some designated flights, in order to assist with any young passengers.
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