Traveling with children is not an easy task and something of a stress for parents, especially when it comes to air travel. Airlines do try and improve the passenger experience for families and make air travel more pleasant. However, most passengers will admit that they hope they will not be sitting next to a crying baby or a disruptive child throughout the journey. But should this be the case, is there anything a flight attendant can do to help?

Empathy

Unfortunately, we can not avoid these situations entirely, and there will be incidents of children being unruly or kicking the seat back. In the first instance, it is better all around to be empathetic towards the parents who are, in all likelihood, very frazzled already. If instead of adopting a more aggressive attitude, you can use some humor or make a light comment, the parents are more likely to be sympathetic and pacify the child. Empathy usually goes a long way no matter the situation.

Babies

Of course, we can not do much about babies who cry or scream but try and be sympathetic. The worst times for infants are during ascent and descent when pressure will affect their ears. Giving the baby something to eat or drink will help relieve the pressure and hopefully lead to them feeling less distressed.

If so inclined, you could offer to help the parents and hold the baby for a short time. Most airlines carry a limited supply of baby food, milk formula, and diapers if needed. Some airlines offer baby meals as part of their service and may have soft toys to give to babies.

Distraction

If a child is being disruptive in any way, try to be kind at first and understand that the parent is trying their best. Distraction is the key factor, so offering some sweets or snacks (with the parent's permission, of course) or something to play with may help. Helping them to color a picture, play a game, or read a book, may stop them from kicking the seat or other unwanted behavior.

When to call a flight attendant

If a child is being difficult and the parents are not doing anything about it, a flight attendant will likely notice and ask the parent/parents if they need anything. This could be a drink, snack, or toy if available. If the parent is willingly trying to calm the child, there is no issue.

A passenger can ask for a flight attendant's assistance with a disruptive child, but they are limited in what they can do to help. Especially with social media, a reprimand from a flight attendant could be completely taken out of context, and this would put the flight attendant in a difficult position.

Safety issue?

If a child is climbing over or under the seats, refusing to wear a seat belt or repeatedly pressing the call bell, this is a safety issue. In this case, the flight attendant can ask the child to stop the behavior, but in a sensitive way. This will usually be enough, and parents are usually quite responsive.

A flight attendant will be insistent if it is a safety issue, such as not wearing a seatbelt during take-off and landing. They are responsible for passengers' safety onboard and will explain why it is important for the child to be restrained during critical phases of flight, and the parent must comply.

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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