Sure, parents don't look forward to flying with their kids. They fear the airplane tantrums, the inevitable seat kicking followed by the angry glares from fellow passengers. There may be no getting around the stress of flying with your children. But we're here to help you with at least one part of your journey–the airport. We know from experience that navigating the busiest airport in the world with kids can be daunting with long security lines, construction and crowds. But it doesn't have to be a chore. In fact, it can even be fun (well, not as fun as traveling without kids, but still fun nonetheless). Getting ThereBefore you can start your airport fun, you've got to get there with as little drama as possible. Luckily, you have lots of options. For parking, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) has affordable remote options like The Parking Spot and Park 'N Fly as well as convenient options like terminal parking. Basically you pick between saving money or saving time. If you live near a MARTA rail station, you can hop on and go straight to the airport from the red or gold lines. Uber or Lyft is another convenient option; just remember to bring car seats. Security Sweets and TreatsBoth parents and kids can agree on one thing: there is nothing fun about the security line. But you can make it tolerable by bringing simple sweets that are easy to distribute. Have your bag of Skittles (or whatever your kids prefer) handy and give your kids different goals. “If you can make it from this sign to that sign without fighting, you each get a Skittle” or “If you earn three points in the next five minutes (awarded for good behavior), you can have a Skittle.” Your kids will be so well behaved, the other passengers in line will thank you.
Skip the TrainIf you have time, walk from security to your terminal rather than riding the Plane Train. Visitors to ATL can check out the exhibits between each terminal, which feature pictures, statues and stories about Atlanta's history. Kids can either walk or use the moving sidewalk. Besides helping to kill time and keep kids engaged, this strategy helps to burn off some energy before they sit on the plane. Ride the TrainYes, this sounds contradictory but hear us out. If you're short on time or if your kids are anti-walking, the Plane Train is a ride in itself. Kids can stand and hold onto a pole and try to keep themselves upright as the train stops. EatKids work up an appetite waiting in lines plus walking or riding to their gate. Luckily, ATL has plenty of family-friendly dining options at each terminal, and even before security. Parents can pick up quick food at Atlanta's hometown favorites Chick Fil-a (three locations) and The Varsity (two locations). If your wait is longer, ATL has lots of sit-down restaurants including four TGI Fridays. As long as you don't mind sugaring them up a little bit before the plane ride, be sure to check one of two Savannah's Candy Kitchen locations. It's a sweet-tooth's dream come true with candy by the bag, truffles and fudge. PlayCurrently ATL does not have a dedicated play area for kids but plans are in the works to add one. In the meantime, parents need to get creative. You can keep it simple by watching the planes come and go out of any of the wall-sized windows. Try a scavenger hunt through the terminal–find gate C7, find a trash can that opens when you wave at it. Parents can also bring their own entertainment–paper/crayons, small games, cards–and find a quiet gate area to spread out. Save the screens for the actual plane ride. The post Tips for Surviving the Atlanta Airport with Kids appeared first on Atlanta Parent Magazine.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
January 2019
Categories |