The cartoonist suggests that by investing in small inflatable children like this one, airlines could offer a strong deterrent to wailing children. Ha, ha. Not so funny when the wailing child is your own.

Why do babies and small children cry on airplanes?

There are many reasons why babies cry. Here are those most often blamed for airplane tears:-

Ears

Ear discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes during take off and landing can cause babies and small children quite a lot of pain. As the flight progresses, ears unsuccessfully equalised during take-off continue to cause discomfort - and for babies and toddlers the best way to communicate this is with tears.

Baby’s crying will go a long way towards relieving ear pressure discomfort. But it’s better to plan to try to avoid the tears in the first place by nursing your baby during take-off and landing. Baby’s swallowing action will ensure the right equalising effect and if a full belly also encourages him to sleep, so much the better.

Routine Disruption

New surroundings, the flickering of the video screen overhead, missed naps and disrupted meal times upset some children more than others.

If your’s is a baby who thrives on routine, try to plan airplane travel around nap times to minimise disruptions. If you are flying long haul, a night flight is often preferable, so that baby can sleep on your knee or in a sky cot if one is available, at his usual time.

What can parents do to help?

As well as taking the precautions above, many parents carry a medical kit with paracetamol elixir and some homeopathic remedies for their infant. Consult your health professional before you fly to make sure you know exactly the measures that are right for your child.

Use the paracetamol elixir if you suspect your child is suffering from ear discomfort. Use homeopathic remedies such as Bach’s flower remedy for stress or Badger Sleep Balm to promote restfulness - for you and for your child.