First Time Flying Alone: Tips for Kids

🎯 Before the Trip

Talk Through the Process

Walk your child through exactly what will happen, step by step:

• Checking in at the airport with you
• Going through security together
• Walking to the gate and meeting the airline escort
• Boarding the plane first (UMs board early)
• What to do during the flight
• How pickup works at the destination

Practice Scenarios

Role-play common situations:

• "What do you do if you need to use the bathroom?"
• "What if you feel sick?"
• "What if someone talks to you who isn't airline staff?"
• "What if you get confused or scared?"

The answer to most questions: Ask a flight attendant. They're there to help.

Watch Videos

Find YouTube videos of kids flying alone or virtual airport tours. Seeing the process helps reduce anxiety about the unknown.

✈️ Day of the Flight

Arrive Extra Early

Plan to arrive 2-3 hours early. UM check-in takes longer due to paperwork. Rushing creates stress.

Stay Until Takeoff

Most airlines require the escorting adult to stay at the airport until the plane takes off. Use this time to:

• Sit near a window and watch planes take off together
• Get a snack at an airport restaurant
• Walk around and explore the terminal

Meet the Escort

At the gate, you'll meet the airline employee who will escort your child onto the plane. Make sure your child:

• Knows the escort's name
• Understands this person is in charge until landing
• Says goodbye to you confidently (even if nervous)

🛫 During the Flight

What to Tell Your Child

• Flight attendants are helpers. Press the call button anytime you need something.
• Stay in your seat with the seatbelt on unless going to the bathroom.
• Don't talk to strangers except airline staff (people in uniform).
• It's okay to feel nervous. Take deep breaths. The flight will be over soon.
• Keep your bag under the seat so you can reach your stuff easily.

Ear Pressure

Explain that ears might feel funny during takeoff and landing. Give them:

• Gum to chew
• Hard candy to suck on
• Technique: Swallow, yawn, or hold nose and blow gently

🛬 At Arrival

How Pickup Works

Explain that:

• A flight attendant will walk them off the plane
• They'll meet the person picking them up at a designated spot
• The pickup person must show ID
• They should never leave with someone not on the approved list

If Something Goes Wrong

Make sure your child knows:

• Stay with airline staff — don't wander
• Your phone number (memorized or written down)
• The pickup person's phone number
• They can always ask to call you

💪 Building Confidence

Focus on the Positive

• "You get to board first!"
• "Flight attendants will bring you snacks"
• "You'll have your tablet the whole time"
• "[Person] is so excited to see you!"

Empower, Don't Scare

Instead of listing everything that could go wrong, focus on:

• "You're so grown up to do this"
• "Millions of kids fly alone every year"
• "I trust you completely"

A Small Reward

Consider a special treat waiting at the destination, or a small gift to open on the plane. Something to look forward to helps offset nervousness.