“Are we there yet?”

When Thomas was 2 years old, his parents decided they should travel to the east coast for their first trip across the country in an airplane. They discussed the plans with me in order to have the most success; ease in packing, comfort in travel and knowledge to get through it. We discussed the biggest worries…What if he doesn’t sit still? What if he makes a ton of noise? What if we forget what we need and we are stuck on the plane?

We explored the A.H.H of preparing for the flight. Aim to get everything packed and ready 24 hours before the flight. That way the day of travel is dedicated to playing, relaxing and keeping with the normal routine. This allows for successful transitions and staying present with your child. Humor, applies to softening the expectations – be flexible, stay positive and make it fun. Thomas’s parents discussed ways to share their roles and to become available to the potential options that would occur on the flight. Happiness was explored by giving Thomas opportunities to role play how to respond on the airplane (his tone of voice, options for moving, areas to explore). He was able to look at pictures, ask questions and work out his feelings around traveling with his parents.

Thomas and his family learned the importance of becoming aware of their individual needs, their emotions around flying and acceptance for the journey ahead.

Are you making plans to travel with your family or know a family about to take flight? Everyday I work with children of all ages and their families to support their development and connection to one another, on the ground and in the sky! Email me at therapy@drloribaudino.com or call me at (310) 966-0700 to schedule your time.

Please Note: These stories are based on real moments but all names, ages, and identifying information has been changed to ensure confidentiality and safety for all individuals involved. The events are a composite of related scenarios used to illustrate the work; bringing understanding to the benefits of supporting children through a mind/body connection.