1. Games: You don’t have to carry anything heavy, although a pack of cards always helps. Other than cards, be creative, make up your own games. Lots of counting games: count the # of x planes, y planes, how many just took off the runway, how many just landed, who can spot the 1st y airline pilot, how many d-icing trucks can you see, and the list goes on amazon has fun games and toys for travel.

2. Movies / Books: Don’t forget to bring any of one these gadgets with you, and your little one will stay entertained for a while. Laptop with DVD drive / mp3 / iPod with video feature, or you can rent a portable DVD player for $15 at inmotion stores, at most major airports. Carry couple of their favorite books, just for situations like this. If you have membership with an online store don’t forget to rent a few movies a couple of days prior to travel.

3. Friends: Your kids might not be travelling with friends, but they can sure make some. Just sit by, where other kids are too, and before you know it, most kids are going to be playing tag, or hide and seek, or some game they just make up. They will be building their social skills, while giving you some downtime. We let our son make friends any opportunity he gets, but definitely when stuck at the airport! Once when there was a weather delay at LaGuardia NYC, Seth and a 9 year old girl were both very bored and antsy before they found each other. 3hours later, you would think they were best siblings.

4. Walk: 3 words: walk, walk, and walk. The more you walk with the kids, the less antsy they are. You can window shop, but with kids it might be better to walk, and venture even to other terminals, or take the airport train, given you have very long delays, and somebody to stay back to watch your luggage. Some airports have exhibits, you can enjoy.

5. Grab a Bite: Airport food can cost you an arm and a leg. However, if there are any fast foods available, you can get a kids meal for your kid, and the toy that comes with it will keep them busy for a while. If you don’t want any fast food, you can just have some hot chocolate or a soft drink, and people watch. The important thing is, not to sit in one place / area. Move around and the time will pass faster.

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