Ways to Ease Young Children’s Flight Anxiety

Traveling by airplane can be exciting—but for many young children, it can also be scary. Loud noises, tight spaces, and unfamiliar routines may lead to anxiety. The good news is that with the right preparation and support, you can help your child feel calm, confident, and even excited about flying!

Here are some simple and effective ways to ease flight anxiety in young children.

1. Talk About the Trip Ahead of Time

Start discussing the flight a few days (or weeks) before traveling. Keep the conversation positive and age-appropriate.

• Explain step-by-step what will happen, from checking in to buckling the seatbelt.
• Avoid using worrisome language (like “Don’t be scared”).
• Show excitement: “We’re going to fly high in the sky like the birds!”

2. Read Books or Watch Videos About Flying

Children understand best through stories and visuals. Try reading airplane-themed books or watching short, child-friendly videos that show what airports and planes look like.

Some great options:

• “The Airport Book” by Lisa Brown
• “Going on a Plane” by Usborne
• PBS or YouTube clips showing plane takeoffs

3. Let Them Role-Play “Flying”

Pretend play can make real-life experiences feel less scary.

• Set up chairs and pretend to fly together.
• Role-play as the pilot, flight attendant, and passenger.
• Practice wearing a seatbelt and “fastening tray tables.”

4. Offer Comfort Items

Give children a sense of familiarity in an unfamiliar place.

Bring:

• A favorite stuffed animal or blanket
• Noise-canceling headphones
• A sensory toy or fidget

Let your child know these are their “travel buddies.”

5. Download Fun Entertainment

Before your flight, load a tablet or device with their favorite shows, music, educational games, or audiobooks. Distraction can be a powerful tool against anxiety.

Tip: Pack a surprise activity or new coloring book for an extra dose of excitement mid-flight!

6. Keep Snacks Handy

Hunger can increase anxiety. Pack familiar, easy-to-eat snacks and a spill-proof water bottle.

Examples:

• Applesauce pouches
• Crackers
• Fruit snacks
• Cheese sticks

Tip: Offer snacks during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure.

7. Validate Their Feelings

If your child seems nervous, acknowledge it gently.

Instead of saying, “There’s nothing to be scared of,” try:

“It’s okay to feel nervous. I’ll be with you the whole time, and we’re safe.”

8. Practice Breathing Techniques

Teach simple breathing exercises before the trip.

• “Smell the flower” (inhale)
• “Blow out the candle” (exhale)

Try this together when the plane takes off or turbulence occurs.

9. Stay Calm Yourself

Children often reflect the feelings of caregivers. If you stay relaxed and positive, your child is more likely to feel safe and calm.

10. Celebrate the Success

After landing, celebrate with a small treat or fun activity.

Say something like:

“You were so brave on the airplane! How did it feel to fly?”

This helps create positive memories for future travel.

Supporting children through flight anxiety is all about preparation, comfort, and reassurance. With a little planning, you can turn their fears into excitement and make your journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

Whether you’re flying to visit family or headed on vacation, every child has the potential to become a confident traveler, with you by their side!