Flying
The insider: Brittany Riley, O’Hare-based flight attendant
Study the seat map before you book: “You don’t want to be at a bulkhead with kids, because you don’t have the under-the-seat availability. Being closer to the bathroom is also huge. But some kids have anxiety with flying, and at the back, you feel everything.”
Spring for the checked baggage fees: “Checking as many bags as you can is super helpful. When my kids were young, I would pack the stroller with carry-on items all the way up to boarding and wear my son in the baby carrier, so that I could have my hands free. Then I’d check the stroller at the gate.”
Be ready for a tantrum: “I always kept backup items for when meltdowns occurred. For example, kids love lollipops, and they can be time-consuming, which is good for longer flights. A notebook is also good so they can play games like tic-tac-toe or get creative with drawings. If all else fails, ask a flight attendant for a plastic drinking cup, which can be an excellent alternative for a small child to play with.”
Prepare for worst-case poop scenarios: “Accidents happen. My son was 7 months old and had a total blowout. When you’re holding the child, you bear the brunt. Bring on board a backpack that has an extra pair of clothes — not only for the kids but for you.”
Dining Out
The insider: Eks Hutch, server at Maxwells Trading
Trust the staff: “A while ago, when I worked at another restaurant, I had a parent who was very adamant on placing the highchair in the aisleway. We had a new server at the time, and she flew around the corner with a pot roast. All of the juice fell into the chair. Luckily, the child was in the bathroom at the time. Know that we’re on the same team. We’re always going to want to put the kid in the best spot to make everyone in the restaurant feel comfortable.”
Share your time limitations: “A lot of times, parents tell me, ‘Bedtime is in two hours.’ I love that communication because it will let me know that we have a certain time to get you out of here.”
Make the little ones feel part of the action: “It’s helpful when parents help their kids feel engaged in the experience. Let them order their own drink or hand me the credit card. Kids love the credit card! They feel like they paid the bill.”