Summary: Vacations are fun, but traveling with your children can also be very stressful.Traveling can be an exciting yet stressful time, especially if you have your children involved. Even though you may love visiting new places with your kids, it can present a challenge you weren't expecting. If you allow yourself enough time and planning with these few tips, your vacation can be a fun and relaxing time for the whole family. Traveling by plane: Allow your family extra time to get through security; especially when traveling with younger children. Have children wear shoes and outer layers of clothing that are easy to take off for security screening. Children younger than 12 are no longer required to remove their shoes for routine screenings. Talk to your children about the security screening process before coming to the airport Discuss the fact that it's against the law to make threats such as, "I have a bomb in my bag." Threats made jokingly (even by a child) can delay the entire family and could result in fines. Wash hands frequently, and consider bringing hand-washing gel to prevent illnesses during travel. Consult your pediatrician before flying with a newborn or infant who has chronic heart or lung problems or upper or lower respiratory symptoms. Consult your pediatrician if flying within two weeks of an episode of an ear infection or ear surgery. Travel by car: Most rental car companies can arrange for a car seat if you are unable to bring yours along. However, they may have a limited selection of seats. Check that the seat they provide is appropriate for the size and age of your child, that it appears to be in good condition, and that an instruction manual is provided before accepting it. All children under 13 years of age should ride in the rear seat of vehicles. Set a good example by always wearing a seat belt, even in a taxi. Never leave your child alone in a car, even for a minute. What are some other survival tips for when you travel? Elizabeth Murray, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss how you can travel stress-free this summer.
