Helping my boys' ears adjust for flying

[Anniegirl]

Our usual MO was to offer a bevarage during take-off and landings. (First bottles, then sippy cups, sucking works best for them). With the current restrictions in place I am asking, please, for other suggestions. I have 2 little ones with sensory issues so the 'earplane' thingys won't be an option. They'd choke with gum, and I hesitate to give my 18 month old something too chewy. I'm thinking maybe a can of Pediasure for the little one's sippy cup might make it through security OK but would rather not tempt the fates and go with a nonliquid solution. It would be terrific if beverage service would be offered before take-off for those who need it...thst would screw up the schedule, wouldn't it Thank you in advance for any and all sugggestions!

 

[scammermom]

From what I understand, they will allow juice (boxes?) and formula so Pedisure should be ok too. Take the sippy cup empty to show them.

 

[ZanneMarie]

My one son who has difinite problems with his ears always seems to benefit by taking some over the counter type decongestant..sudafed or the like. Since we have started doing this he does not have ear problems. Depending on the length of the flight I do sometimes redose him about 30-45 minutes before we land. He is able to swallow a pill so I don't know about the whole liquid medicine issue. I am hoping that over the counter pills will be ok in carry on luggage--I am thinking that the ban is on liquid only?

 

[Laurajean1014]

Sucking through a straw is also good for the ears.

How about a lozenge or some Benedryl before you leave the house and have some packed for the trip back. This always openned my son's ears.

 

[aquaticmom]

I know this may sound crazy, but I learned this trick right here on the boards and have used it twice since and it really does work. Ask the flight attendant for two empty drink cups and have your children hold them to their ears as you start to descend, they somehow equalize the pressure and alleviate some of the ear problems. My sister's son really has problems with his ears and their flight attendant also put warm, wet napkins in the cups. I know it sound crazy, but it's worth a try.

 

[aquaticmom]

Sorry double post

 

[kpk89]

How do they do with lollipops? Something like a Tootsie Pop? That might work.

Alternately, it sounds as though they are allowing infant formula but are requiring passengers to "test" it before boarding. I imagine if your were willing to open and pour the pediasure into the sippy , and have your child drink some on the spot, they'd probably let it by.

Lollipop might be easier!

 

[newholidayx2]

I also usually drink from my Brita bottle as we take off - guess I'll be stocking up on more gum!

 

[cgcw]

I know this may sound crazy, but I learned this trick right here on the boards and have used it twice since and it really does work. Ask the flight attendant for two empty drink cups and have your children hold them to their ears as you start to descend, they somehow equalize the pressure and alleviate some of the ear problems. My sister's son really has problems with his ears and their flight attendant also put warm, wet napkins in the cups. I know it sound crazy, but it's worth a try.

We're going to have to try this. My DS6 has had problems with his ears forever and even chewing gum doesn't help all the time. Maybe this will. We're flying out to Disney World tonight so hopefully it will help to relieve some pressure.

We also use the decongestant or benadryl prior to flying.

OP, will your children use a pacifier? It provides some sucking motion too. Or, even their thumb? Maybe that would help.


There is nothing worse than yor child being uncomfortable and not being able to do anything about it. As adults, we should be able to handle it but the kids don't always understand.

Best of luck!



ETA: I don't know if this would work, but I had a thought about grapes. Being they can be rather juicy, I was thinking if you brought some with you on the plane (cut in half if need be for your kids) and gave them to them during take off/landing, if the chewing of them would be enough to force them to swallow and keep their ears open at the same time. It might be a far fetched idea, but I might bring a bag with me tonight for my own son.