Stressed 6 year old - need help!

[Celestine]

In 4 weeks DH & I are taking DD (4) & our niece to WDW. Our neice has not flown since 9/11 & is now working herself into a right state about flying & that we would force her onto rides she doesn't like (bummer as it includes splash mountain). I think the ride thing is now sorted, however, has anyone else flown with children who are nervous of flying? What, if anything, did you give them? SIL is all for a march to the GP for valium or something, but I@d rather take the more natural (?) approach.

 

[edie w]

I think lots of patience, reassurance and distraction is the key. Listen to her concerns and explain to her all of the things the airlines are doing to improve security, in terms she can understand. And keep on going over the same ground if necessary. My niece is 12 and is pretty worried, although determined not to let it get the better of her, and we find being sympathetic and reassuring and focusing on what we are going to do when we get there works much better than dismissing her concerns.

Maybe you could arrange a trip to your local airport so she can watch planes landing and taking off in safety?

And if she's scared when you are on the plane e.g. in turbulence or when the plane makes strange noises, we always look at the stewards and remember they do this every day. Do they look relaxed and happy? If so, then everything's OK.

I can't see any GP giving a sedative to a child specifically for flying - especially not valium. But you could try carrying an anti-travel- sickness medication in case you need it. Talk to a pharmacist and explain that your niece is also anxious so you don't want a non-drowsy formulation.

Other people have also recommended Bach flower remedies and aromatherapy oils. Don't have much experience of these but sure other people will be able to recommend something.

Judicious use of the remote control during news coverage of 9/11 might also be a good idea!

Hope you have a wonderful time. We'll be there a few days after you!

 

[galaxy]

I hope things go ok for u

Perhaps u could try something like phenergan(Ithink u can get it on prescription....makes u drowsy).

We find that giving the kids plenty to do...a bag full off puzzles, gameboys etc helps pass the time!

I've had some alcohol tonite....sorry if the answer seems disjointed!

Galaxy

 

[vernon]

IMHO at that age most children take their cue from the adults around them. If you all can remain positive and avoid making too much of an issue of it I'm sure that will help. Some kids pick up just the obvious stuff like adults talking out loud about their own fears, some pick up the whispers that we think they don't hear because they are occupied playing or watching TV and some are perceptive enough to pick up on less obvious signs like body language and indirect references.
On the rides there's not much you can do if they don't want to go on a bid ride, IMHO not much point in trying to force them. It may help to try and build up their tollerence by starting on the less extreme rides and working up until you find their limits.

 

[Celestine]

Thanks for everyone's input - I'm in daily contact with SILfor a progress update, but it is so hard to control the environment when they aren't yours! DD can't wait, & I'm hoping that this will be a very positive influence, and splash mountain will still be there next time we go (I know there will be a next time, not yet sure when), and if DD is tall enough, she can go with DH & we'll have a mickey bar & watch! I'll post a report when I get back to let you all know how I got on, but if you're on flight VS049 11/10/03 apologies in advance. By the way - tickets arrived yesterday. Impressed as it's still 4 weeks to go!