We’ve all been there: delayed flights, long layovers, or unexpected challenges causing us to spend more time in the airport than planned. Enduring these situations can be difficult, no matter our age. However, for families with young children, finding the right spot for their kids to sleep at the airport can be doubly challenging. This comprehensive guide to helping kids sleep comfortably at the airport will provide you everything from finding the perfect location to creating a cozy sleeping environment, and everything in between!
Kids Sleeping At Airport Table of Contents
1. Find the perfect location:
Take a walk around the airport and look for the best place to set up your child’s sleeping area. Keep an eye out for quiet areas, away from the hustle and bustle of main walkways. Some airports have designated quiet areas, family rooms, or nursery spaces which can be perfect for settling your child to sleep.
2. Prepare a comfortable sleeping surface:
Airports are generally not designed with the most comfortable sleeping arrangements in mind, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create one. If you have a cozy, inflatable travel pillow for your child, this can come in handy. Alternatively, you can use a soft blanket or a folded jacket to provide cushioning and support beneath your child’s head.
3. Bring a familiar comfort item:
A favorite stuffed toy, security blanket, or even an item of your clothing (such as a scarf or shawl) that smells like home can provide immense comfort to children who may be disoriented or anxious about their unusual environment. Encourage your child to hold onto this item while they try to fall asleep.
4. Stay close and offer reassurance:
Your presence will be your child’s greatest comfort during this potentially stressful time. Make sure you remain by their side, holding their hand and speaking to them in quiet, soothing tones to help them feel secure and reassured in this unusual environment.
5. Block out noise and distractions:
Airports can be noisy places, and the sounds could inhibit your child’s ability to drift off to sleep. A pair of noise-canceling headphones or earplugs may come in handy. Alternatively, you can create white noise using an app on your smartphone or play calming lullabies or relaxation music to drown out the airport noise.
6. Dim the lights:
Bright lighting in airport terminals can be a barrier to sleep. If you are able to find a dimly lit area, position your child’s sleeping space there. Otherwise, you can use a sleep mask or a soft, lightweight scarf to cover their eyes, providing a comfortable and darkness-promoting environment.
Kids Sleeping At Airport Example:
Imagine you’re at a busy airport with your five-year-old, waiting for a connecting flight that’s been delayed for several hours. Your child is getting tired and cranky, and you’re struggling to find a spot where they can sleep. Following our guide, you locate a quiet corner near a empty gate and set up a makeshift bed using a folded jacket and a travel blanket. You give your child their favorite stuffed animal and put on some calming music with your headphones. By staying close and speaking soothingly to them, they feel safe and secure enough to drift off to sleep, making your layover significantly less stressful.
Preparing yourself and your child for sleeping at the airport can help make your travel experience smoother and less daunting. By following these comprehensive steps, you can ensure your child gets the rest they need during those long layovers or unexpected delays. Don’t forget to share this useful guide with your fellow traveling parents and explore our Airport Sleeping Pods blog for even more helpful tips and tricks to make your airport stays as comfortable as possible.
