18 Ways to Entertain a Child on an Airplane

It's a daunting thought: dealing with an energetic toddler during a long flight abroad. Thanks to our expatriate lifestyles, this means flying happens more often than normal as we head to visit family across the world. 

And with some airlines banning electronic devices recently on international flights, parents have been left panicking over how they'll keep their little ones entertained. 

There's no need to worry though... All you need to do is keep this list safe somewhere, for whenever you need inspiration for kids entertainment on an airplane. There's 18 brilliant ways to help pass the time, without annoying other passengers or running into airline restrictiions. 

So pick your favourite, lightweight options from this list and enjoy your flight. 

1. Play a gentle game of catch with a soft ball, or a mini Koosh ball

2. Surprise them twice with a new t-shirt... That they can colour in themselves, like this lovely jungle one

3. Buy small, inexpensive activity books that have stickers, paper dolls and dot-to-dots

4. Bring a deck of cards, or even an Uno pack that will provide hours of entertainment

5. Interactive books like Where's Wally and I Spy are easy distractions

6. Tell a fairy-tale story with finger puppets to them

7. Keep little fingers busy with a sheet of bubble wrap, or even a box of plasters

SEE ALSO: Top tips for parents flying with children

8. Pretend to fish with a stick, string and dowel... Use post-it notes as 'fish'

9. Buy cheap toys and wrap them up, surprise your kid(s) with one every 30-60 minutes

10. Stock up on some gel window clings so they can decorate the plane's window

11. Take felt shapes of different colours and sizes so they can create their own piece of art

12. Bring tin foil, so your kids can make their own sculptures

13. Play who's-that-relative with pictures of Grandma or their cousins inside plastic sleeves for protection (they're lighter too)

14. Rub-on tattoos will no doubt ignite their curiosities

15. Perform magic with invisible ink colouring books, available at most book stores

16. Co-author a book with your child: write their story, and let them be the illustrator

SEE ALSO: 9 helpful apps for special needs

17. Snacks that take a while to eat help, like raisins

18. And walk! If it's safe to do so, have a wander up and down the plane with your little one so they can explore

Do you have any other ideas? Comment below to share them with us!