A CHILD expert has revealed three things parents should always do to avoid their kids having a tantrum on a plane. A survey of 75,000 people in the UK found more than one in 10 people had experienced their children crying throughout an entire flight . Elizabeth O'Shea, a child behaviourist, has come to parents' rescue and shared her best tricks to prevent the worst from happening.
Planning beforehand can save you a lot of headaches when it's time to travel, according to the child expert. Nearly a third of parents who failed to do so claimed it led to a nightmare journey. Elizabeth recommends parents teach their children about "the flight process ahead of time so they know what to expect - for toddlers and young children, it's a great idea to set up a pretend aeroplane at home with signs and belts so they can picture what is going to happen on the day".
read more on travel She added: "It's also key to remember that children rely on their parents to help them regulate, so really tune into your child, and focus on their needs and emotions to make the process as smooth as possible." The child behaviourist expert suggests bringing plenty of snacks for your child. It could be a lifesaver if you and your child face hefty delays.
Sweets can also help fix your kid's in-flight attitude as it helps equalise the air pressure behind their eardrums. Most read in Travel "Children are much less likely to get upset or irritable if they feel comfortable and not in any pain," the child expert a.