TOP TRAVEL QUESTIONS - PART ONE
© Lain Ehmann
1. What if my child cries on the airplane?
First of all, it's a law of parenting that your child's cry sounds at least 10 decibels louder to you than to any other human. Mother Nature set it up that way to make sure your baby gets his or her needs met. So for starters, remember that the crying sounds worse to you than to anyone else!
Next, most adults realize that babies do cry. It's a fact of life. Usually, fellow travelers will cut parents a break if they see that the parents are honestly making an effort to calm their child. Do the best you can - rock, walk, feed, change, play. If nothing works, keep moving. At least you'll annoy your travel companions on a rotating basis!
Seriously, though - do what you can do, then take a deep breath. The more uptight you are, the more your baby will sense that everything is NOT okay. Your child is most likely to relax when you relax. Just remind yourself that you're only with these people for a short time, and you're doing the best you can do. The rest is... well, life.
2. What if I can't find the baby food or formula my baby likes?
The best thing you can do is follow the Boy Scout creed: Be Prepared. When it comes to packing, I typically recommend packing light. But when it comes to your baby's food, I say, "Take no risks!" I usually travel with a carry-on cosmetic case packed to the gills with formula, bottles, baby food, graham crackers, goldfish, Saltines, and anything else my little one typically eats.
It's much better to pack what you need than to expect to make a run to the grocery store once you get settled. You never know what brands are regional, and when you might not be able to find a 24-hour convenience store that carries Tender Harvest Green Beans and Potatoes. Why take a chance? Bring it along.
