Traveling with children can be a memorable experience or one fraught with problems and unpleasantness. I have found in traveling with my own children and grandchildren that the most important thing was to make careful plans. If you are traveling with a new or small infant, this is even more important. Each type of travel presents different problems. If you are flying with an infant, it is wise to check with the airlines about what type of infant seats are allowed and what you can carry on to the plane. Breast milk in bottles is usually not allowed. Remember that infants should be sucking on a bottle, a nipple or a pacifier on take-off or landing. Carry lots of extra supplies because you will need them. Also, never give any medicine that has not been previously given. It could cause a bad reaction or excitement, rather than sedation.
With children and teenagers, I would get them to help plan the trip and also outline your expections of how they will act. Kids need lots of breaks if you are traveling by car. One tip I learned was to carry a bag with small, fun, wrapped surprises the kids could open when they started getting restless or tired. Having lots of protein snacks is a good idea, but not hard candies, nuts, raw vegetables or anything that can cause a child to choke. Always have lots of water on hand.
For small children, there are portable cribs that can be carried in a car, but if you use cribs in a motel or hotel, check that the crib slats ar no more than 2-3/8 inches apart. Otherwise a child could be caught between the bars. Also, firm mattresses are important. Check the windows in hotels and motels to be sure a child can not slip through. This is particularly important for kids with autism, who may try to slip away. If you have made careful plans, carried lots of supplies, and are prepared for emergencies, your traveling will hopefully be lots of fun and memorable. Happy traveling!
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