Popping Ears

Helping Your Child Deal With Ear Pressure When Flying

When flying with babies and young toddlers, the most difficult part of the flight is likely to be take off and landing.

As the plane gains altitude the cabin pressure changes, making the air pressure around the inner ear off balance. This causes pressure on the inner ear drum, uncomfortable enough for an adult, but usually very painful for a baby or small child who can't pop their ears.

Experienced traveling parents know there are a few tricks you can use to help minimize the pressure and keep your child comfortable. While making take off more pleasant for your child doesn't guarantee a peaceful, relaxing flight, it will to a long way to making baby's flight less stressful.

First, try to plan ahead and schedule a fight close to your baby's regular feeding time. Breastfeeding is the most effective way to calm your fussy baby and minimize that inner ear pressure. If you don't breastfeed, or are uncomfortable nursing in public, offer baby a bottle or pacifier as the plane takes off.

For a toddler, try putting earplugs or cotton balls in their ears before take off. The earplugs will help equalize the pressure.

Be sure your child's favorite comfort item is not under the plane. Stash it in your carry on bag and give it to your child before take off and landing. Having a familiar cuddle item will help your child cope with the odd sensations in their ears.

Older children can chew gum and make funny faces, opening their mouth as wide as they can. Also, before the flight teach your older child to pop their ears by holding their nose and blowing.

By taking a few simple steps to eliminate the pain of take off and landing you will ensure a more pleasant flight for your baby, yourself, and your fellow passengers.