Solo Dad & Toddler

[Evan]

Posted by Evan on January 15, 2004 at 18:05:39:

I will be traveling SOLO with my two year old son soon to Europe. He has never been on a plane and I am nervous doing this solo! I am freaked out by the whole diaper changing thing during the flights. Any fellow Dads out there done an 7+ hour flight solo with a baby that is not toilet trained? Any useful advice on how to change a baby's diaper on an airplane?
Thanks for any candid advise!

[jeannie]

Posted by jeannie on February 16, 2004 at 15:51:13:

In Reply to: Solo Dad & Toddler posted by Evan on January 15, 2004 at 18:05:39:

My daughter (now 2) and I have traveled solo over a dozen times. I have only changed her in the seat once. Most airline bathrooms now have changing tables. Don't fret. You can also change them standing up... unless it's messy.

The best toys for toddlers include -- a thing of playdoh, dolls (yes, boys too), magna doodle (find them in Target), fruit bites, books, crayons (bring paper too), the barf bag (show them how to put things in and out), DVD player (you'll be happy), CD player with headphones, bubbles (find the ones that don't pop, they're a riot). Walk up and down the aisles... over and over. Most airports now have a playground of some kind. Find it and let your child roam. Bring your stuff in a backpack and make sure to have a stroller with you. Important for your child to eat and/or drink during takeoff and descent. Ask the flight attendents when that is. They're really helpful.

[as]

Posted by as on February 12, 2004 at 21:16:53:

In Reply to: Solo Dad & Toddler posted by Evan on January 15, 2004 at 18:05:39:

look for two empty seats together for the diaper changing. Benadryl works wonders for flying but try it first to make sure your child does not have any adverse reaction ( hyper!) have fun.

[ashley jalbert]

Posted by ashley jalbert on February 02, 2004 at 17:33:50:

In Reply to: Solo Dad & Toddler posted by Evan on January 15, 2004 at 18:05:39:

I had to laigh at this one! If you can choose your own seat on the plane choose the first one at the front near first class. You have no one ahead of you and your child has room to sit on the floor and for you to kneel down with a blankie for diaper changing. Always bring a plastic bag for disposal. Bring a lollipop, gum or a juice with a staw for thier ears not to pop. Oh yes... lots and lots of books toys and games.If you have a game that has head phones get one! Or a disc player or walkman with kids tapes.