Flights are can be lots of fun, but they can also be overwhelming for little adventurers. Thankfully, an expert has shared how parents can ease the journey for children by preventing their ears from popping.
The popping of ears is a normal part of air travel - and something most of us are used to - but the sensation can be frightening and uncomfortable for tots. In some cases, youngsters may experience pain if they've got a cold or ear infection.
As children are less well-equipped to equalise the air pressure, the sensation can even feel more intense for toddlers than for grown-ups.
But the good news is the experts at British Airways has compiled its best advice to help ensure younger passengers enjoy a pleasant journey.
Drink up
Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the flight to help keep them comfortable. Although this tactic might mean you need to make a few extra trips to the loo, it's well worth it.
As the pro explains, drinking encourages swallowing, which opens the Eustachian tubes and helps to keep them moist. As your Eustachian tubes equalise the air pressure this can make all the difference. The dry air on planes also thickens nasal mucus, which makes it more likely for the tubes to become clogged.
Similarly, you can help by giving the youngster a snack to chew because this encourages chewing, which in turn helps to stimulate the Eustachian tubes.
For nursing babies and toddlers, breastfeeding or bottle feeding during take-off and landing can help as the sucking motion contributes to stimulating the air canals. The expert adds that using a dummy will have the same effect.
You snooze you lose
If it's possible, it is recommended to keep children awake during take-off and landing. It's better to be awake - so they can swallow and chew - or yawn if they need to.
As yawning is another method that frequently helps it will actually be a positive thing if your child is feeling a little tired in this case.
When it comes to getting little ones to drift off to sleep, later on, while you're in the air, home comforts can make all the difference. The expert suggests bringing snacks, activities and home comforts like a bottle of milk, which British Airways cabin crew will be happy to heat up on request.
Let it out
Understandably, parents are quick to try and quieten crying babes if something sets them off during the flight. However, the expert recommends letting them 'cry it out' if possible.
Since crying helps to free up the airways, this can also help to relieve any pressure during take-off and landing.
Sharing further advice for families flying with children, the pros added: "Make sure to also ask your GP for a doctor's note or letter if your child is prescribed any medication, especially for liquids that are over 100ml."
Do you have a story to share? We pay for stories. Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk
