Flying with kids can be a wonderful adventure, but it can also be challenging, especially on long-haul flights. Keeping young travelers entertained and calm is key to ensuring a stress-free journey for both parents and children. Whether your little one is excited about flying or feeling a bit anxious, having the right set of activities can make all the difference. In this article, The Kids Point presents a variety of fun and calming airplane activities for kids that will keep them engaged, entertained, and relaxed throughout the flight.
Creative Coloring and Activity Books
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep kids entertained on a flight is with coloring books and activity pages. These provide a quiet and mess-free activity that can hold their attention for long periods. Consider:
- Themed Coloring Books – Airplane, travel, or their favorite cartoon characters.
- Sticker Activity Books – A great option that allows kids to create scenes using stickers.
- Dot-to-Dot and Maze Puzzles – Engaging challenges that help develop problem-solving skills.
- Water Wow Books – These reusable water-activated coloring books minimize mess while keeping kids entertained.
Portable Travel Games and Puzzles
Small and lightweight games are ideal for keeping kids busy on flights. Consider packing:
- Magnetic Travel Games – Chess, checkers, or tic-tac-toe sets that prevent pieces from getting lost.
- Mini Puzzles – Compact puzzles with a few large pieces that are easy to manage on a tray table.
- Card Games – UNO, Go Fish, or memory matching cards provide endless entertainment.
- Finger Mazes and Fidget Toys – Helps keep little hands occupied while reducing restlessness.
Engaging Screen Time Options
While limiting screen time is essential, flights are a great time to use tablets or personal entertainment systems in moderation. Download ahead of time:
- Educational Apps – ABCmouse, Khan Academy Kids, or PBS Kids.
- Movies and Shows – Their favorite cartoons or family-friendly movies.
- Audiobooks and Podcasts – Engaging storytelling options for a hands-free entertainment experience.
Quiet Time with Books
Encouraging kids to read (or listen to audiobooks) during the flight can help them relax. Pack:
- Picture Books – Engaging and visually stimulating for young children.
- Early Reader Books – For kids who enjoy reading independently.
- Interactive Lift-the-Flap Books – Keeps their curiosity engaged.
DIY Travel Journal and Doodle Pad
Encourage creativity and reflection with:
- A Small Notebook – Let them document their travel experiences through drawings and simple journal entries.
- Sticker and Stamp Collections – They can decorate their travel journal as they go.
- Colorful Gel Pens and Washable Markers – Adds fun to their creations while being easy to pack.
Sensory and Calming Activities
Flights can sometimes be overwhelming, so calming activities can help kids relax:
- Soft Plush Toys or Comfort Items – Their favorite stuffed animal or blanket provides security.
- Calming Music or Meditation Apps – White noise or guided breathing exercises can help ease anxiety.
- Simple Hand Massage or Fidget Toys – Stress balls, pop-its, or textured items provide soothing tactile input.
Interactive Play and Imagination Games
Imaginative play is a fantastic way to pass the time without the need for screens or extra toys:
- I-Spy Games – Encourage kids to find objects inside the plane.
- Storytelling Games – Take turns creating a story sentence by sentence.
- 20 Questions – Guessing games based on a chosen object, animal, or person.
- Origami or Paper Crafts – Simple paper folding activities like making paper planes.
Healthy Snacks and Hydration
Packing a variety of healthy, non-messy snacks can keep kids happy and reduce mid-flight meltdowns:
- Pre-cut Fruits and Veggies – Grapes, carrot sticks, or apple slices.
- Trail Mix or Granola Bars – Easy to eat and packed with energy.
- Cheese Cubes and Crackers – A filling yet tidy snack option.
- Reusable Water Bottle – Keep them hydrated throughout the flight.
Stretching and Simple Exercises
To prevent restlessness and discomfort, encourage movement even while seated:
- Finger and Hand Stretches – Simple exercises to avoid stiffness.
- Toe Wiggles and Seated Leg Lifts – Helps with circulation during long flights.
- Neck Rolls and Shoulder Shrugs – Relieves built-up tension.
- In-Seat Yoga Poses – Simple stretches to keep them comfortable.
Nap Time Strategies
A well-rested child is a happy traveler. To encourage sleep during the flight:
- Bring a Travel Pillow and Blanket – Provides comfort and familiarity.
- Use Noise-Canceling Headphones – Blocks out distractions.
- Dim the Lights and Play Soothing Sounds – Helps them relax.
- Encourage a Pre-Flight Routine – Stick to their usual nap time schedule as much as possible.
Flying with kids doesn’t have to be stressful! By planning ahead and packing the right combination of fun and calming activities, you can turn air travel into an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Whether through creative crafts, interactive games, soothing sensory tools, or healthy snacks, keeping your child engaged and comfortable is key to a peaceful flight. With these handy airplane activities, both you and your little one can look forward to a smooth and pleasant journey. For more tips and ideas on child-friendly activities, visit The Kids Point and make traveling with kids an exciting adventure!