Help for 1st time flying.

[Maloy]

I have read the other thread on fears of flying but wanted to continue it here.
DW,DD,& DS Have never flown before. They all look to me for advice. The
only problem with that is the fact that I have never flown commercially before! I was a very active Skydiver in my 20's, so yes I've flown and
been in helicopters and such, but never in a commercial jet. My main concern is motion sickness and the ear popping issue. Im not sure if some
medicine will be best before hand. I was thinking of giving them some dramamine for the motion sickness, but that doesnt combat the pain and discomfort from the Ears popping.
So I ask all the veterans out there....whats best? Dramamine or Benadryl?
What have you used??????
BTW: DD-9yrs, DS-6yrs

I will consult with a pediatrician but sometimes word of mouth is best too!

 

[BANNISTER]

Help!!! Our family is flying this July. 1st time DH and I have flown in over 13 years. First flight for DD11, DD8, DS3. I really talked my husband into flying when we started planning our trip due to inflated gas prices. He is not crazy about flying at all. I just hope to have an uneventful flight. I would appreciate any advice on how to make the kids comfortable. DD8 is already starting to say that she is afraid to get on the plane. I have heard about letting them chew gum. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[all4fun]

http://travelwithkids.about.com/cs/planetripstips/a/fearofflying.htm
http://parentcenter.babycenter.com/expert/bigkid/gtravelout/71080.html
I don't have any personal experience since my ds has been too young to have any fear of flying when we flew but here's a few links to articles you all might find helpful!

 

[BANNISTER]

thank you.

 

[rgribik]

Hi, we fly a good deal of the time. Kids have all flown for years, they are 12, 10, 7, 2 & 2. This past April we flew to Calif. and Fla. with all the kids. I have never used any meds. unless one was stuffy. Then I use Benadryl. Mine have never gotten motion sickness. My kids love to fly. Usually they sleep when they are little. I always go to the dollar store and fill a backpack with things they have not seen before. It gets them all excited to get on the plane to see what is in the bag. We do chewing gum or gummies, bottles or sippy cups for the babies. And even though airplane food is awful, they think the tray and getting food and drinks is great. If you are nervous about the plane your kids will feed off of you. Even if you are scared, act like it is an exciting adventure. Have fun!!!

 

[momtotessa]

ditto to the last poster rgribik!
I fly with my 3 to NL and a few new things on the ride, and something to chew on the way down can help. I also don't medicate, unless stuffy. I also use Benadryl. DD8 has been flying since she was a baby. She had trouble with the ear thing as an infant, but last Sept., to NL, no problems. You'll do great. If you are on the flight and they serve a meal, call ahead and order kids meals. My DD8, still remembers being given M&Ms when she was 2. Of all the things she remembers!!! Anyway, alittle preplanning and it should go smooth. Good Luck!