Forget the airline amenity kit, a favorite among carriers to help lure high-end passengers by teasing them with upscale gifts.
No, the newest rage among domestic and foreign airlines is to break out toys, games, puzzles, upgraded video selections, even new meals - all aimed at children.
There is a method to the madness, the New York Times reports. By catering to the pre-pubescent set, airlines are operating under the theory that a happy child makes for happy parents and especially makes for happy fellow passengers.
Because being seated near unruly and bored kids who act out is never a good thing on a six-hour flight.
Here are just some of the domestic and international carriers who have broken out new amenities just for kids:
- JetBlue: The New York-based airline has introduced several new videos just for kids, including one that teaches children how to stay calm on flights, as well as a new food box for purchase designed specifically for children that include such goodies as M&Ms, popcorn, Fig Newton cookies and more.
- Emirates: The Middle East carrier has a Kids Kit that includes a travel-themed reusable bag or lunch box, a coloring book with markers, a project, even a travel journal for older children. And its new kids' menu includes that all-time children's favorite - chicken nuggets.
- Qatar Airways: Also based in the Middle East, and thus with a lot of long-haul flights, Qatar has a new activity pack for younger children and expanded in-flight entertainment for older kids, including more than two dozen family-friendly movies that change monthly.
- Qantas: Many kid-friendly amenities, but we'd book here just for this one alone - an Etch-a-Sketch.
- Turkish Airlines: Parents traveling with infants are going to love this - a kit with a diaper changing mat, disposable bib, rash cream, baby lotion and shampoo, a packet of wipes and a breast pad.
- Singapore Airlines: Toys are distributed as age-appropriate, meaning they range from soft blocks to puzzles to a Monopoly card game.
Now, remember, not every toy or kit or puzzle is fool-proof. Flying can be a challenging experience for everyone, much less young children. Experts say parents can still prepare themselves not to be universally despised by fellow passengers by incorporating a few tricks.
For example, a small baggie of candies you can hand out to surround seat-mates; a pre-written note of apology to hand out if your child goes into tantrum mode; load up a small container (a tackle box, anyone?) with treats for the kids; even a Kindle for older children.
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