How to Prepare a Child for a Flight Alone

Childhood has many firsts: first night alone with the sitter, first day of kindergarten and their first sleep over. Each of these prepares your child for a time when they will be separated from you. Sending your child on their first solo flight is another first where both parent and child may be nervous. These tips will help you prepare your child to fly alone for an easier first time.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the age of your child and their level of independence. All children are different so there's no hard and fast rule about when a child is ready to fly alone. Nervousness is normal, but children should have some desire to fly alone and be able to keep themselves occupied for a length of time.

2. Give your child a copy of their itinerary and thoroughly go over it with them. They should know where they are going and exactly who is picking them up. If possible, have them memorize their airline and flight number and teach them to listen to the pilot's welcome announcement and destination.

3. Make sure they have a cell phone that is fully charged. They should have several numbers stored in case they only have a minute or two to call someone. The phone will also allow you to contact the child to make sure they have landed and were picked up successfully, easing your worries of them being alone.

4. Pack a carry-on bag for your child including a variety of snacks. Airlines offer small snacks if any at all and flying always runs the risk of delays. Having food and drinks for your child will ensure they don't go hungry and wander off to find food. Toys, a portable DVD with movies and anything else your child enjoys are also essential to keep their little hands busy.

5. Talk to the airlines when booking the flight and notify them that your child will be an unaccompanied minor. Most airlines offer the option to have an airline employee constantly with the child at all times if they are very young, or for older children to have an employee meet them at the gate and assist them while in flight and get them off the plane safely.

6. Ask for a gate pass from the airlines so you can go through security with your child and sit with them at the gate until the plane arrives when they must fly alone. You can also request a gate pass for the person who will be picking the child up at their destination so your child doesn't have to navigate a strange airport alone.