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If you’re used to traveling by plane, you’ve probably already faced this problem: how to keep kids busy when flights are delayed? This year is undoubtedly the year of delayed flights, phenomena that have led to a scenario of fear among family travelers.
With that in mind, The Family Vacation Guide has collected research on airports with the most delays as well as airlines with the most delays.
So the data shows that Newark Liberty International in New Jersey experienced the most delays. Because of this scenario, families who frequently travel with children may panic at the thought of keeping the kids busy when a flight is delayed.
Of course, depending on the airport, it is sometimes possible to find an area with games to play with the kids. But what if this area is not available and the flight is delayed? Check here and we’ll tell you!
Tips to keep your kids entertained at the airport
Have paper and pen ready!
Children usually love to draw and engage in this playful spectrum. In addition, many people suggest that these basic equipment can be essential in this emergency situation. One father even reported using this tactic to distract his kids when a flight was delayed.
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He said: “As a parent, it’s important to be prepared for all kinds of situations, including waiting for long periods without internet access or technology. […] When that happens, a reliable pen and paper can save the day from everything from the drawing board to simple games like tictactoe and pictionary.”
Play some games with the kids!
In fact, playing some games with kids can be key to keep them distracted. In this sense, playing guessing games can keep kids busy while parents try to figure out their next steps after a canceled or delayed flight.
Games are the best way to keep kids busy. In general, children love them and are easily distracted when immersed in a play activity, especially one aimed at brain stimulation. So invest in games like Who Am I or other guessing games.
Go for a walk and invent a treasure hunt!
In general, children have an immense ability to play around with the play part of the mind. This is lost over time as we grow up. However, children have a tremendous ability to make everything funnier and funnier.
So if your flight is delayed, you can take your kids to the airport, tell a story, go on a treasure hunt and buy a trophy at a supermarket. The airport is an extremely large place with multiple areas for people to walk and relax. Use this space and time to your advantage.
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Playing hide and seek also helps distract kids at airports!
Rarely does a child not enjoy playing hide and seek. Therefore, this game is perfect for times when your flight is delayed. You can agree on a rule with your children that delineates an area of the airport (i.e. within their field of vision) where they can play hide and seek.
Children love this game as it combines observation and sports activities such as running. If you want to make the game more fun, you can also play hide and seek item and offer a prize to whoever finds the first item.
In summary, there are several ways you can help your kids have fun at airports, especially when the flight is delayed. For more tips like this, see itineraries. So don’t waste time!