Don’t Panic: Flight Delay With A Small Child

Rain showers were coming through the Boston area when we entered the tunnel that leads to the Boston Logan International Airport. We arrived two hours before, which is what airlines recommend in order to make your flight following checking luggage and security. We have a small child so this includes a suitcase and a car seat.

When we came out of the tunnel I had a noticed on my phone that the flight would be delayed two hours. So now we were going to be there for four hours.

I relaxed a bit in the fact at least we had plenty of time to go through security and have the agent take our luggage.

Of course, this part went rather fast. Then we were left with what to do now.

First, we checked out the bookstore. There weren’t a lot of kid’s books, but there were some toys, which led to a discussion that we won’t be buying this trinket that he had found. So, I would take this option off the table.

Then we headed to a restaurant, a seafood place closer to the main part of the terminal, but after security clearance. We found a long like and at least a 30-minute wait.

We then opted to head for the food court. This was the best idea, more options and kids meals available.

Next, my husband remembered that the airport had a play area for the kids. We headed to it and for the next few hours we read while he ran around. He didn’t notice that the plane was delayed. To him this was recess at the airport.

If you have a small child check the airport guide for play areas. The kid was sad when he had to leave his newfound friends for the flight! If your kid is a bit older, you might let him see cartoons or a movie on the ipad or phone. Another option would be to explore the terminal. One could also have a game or deck of cards to play with. We usually keep a few toys for the kid in the bag to preoccupy him in these situations.

What are your suggestions – feel free to leave comments below!

(Visited 71 times, 1 visits today)