I remember, before I had kids, how much I despised children on planes. You know what's changed after I had kids? Absolutely NOTHING! I still despise kids on planes. Before having to fly with my own kids, I never used to be anxious before a flight, but now, I'm a nervous wreck. I keep having this vision of my kids screaming at the top of their lungs and having every person on the plane stare daggers at me. Ultimately, I'd rather suffer through an hour flight from Las Vegas to the Bay Area than drive 11 hours. Unfortunately, I'm not the only one suffering, and for that I'm sorry. We've been pretty lucky so far. At least I acknowledge my loud kids when it does happen, unlike those thoughtless parents that just ignore it. News flash, not everyone has built up that auditory tolerance to your kicking and screaming kids!
I've actually had a kid scream and physically kick my seat without so much of a glance from the inconsiderate parents. And, this kid was at least 5 or 6 and definitely knew better. The flight was fairly full and seats were scarce. Luckily, I saw an empty aisle seat behind the kid when I went to the bathroom and decided to take it when I came back. The rest of the flight was me entertaining myself by periodically tapping the kid's seat from behind. When the drinks were served, I took great pleasure in banging the hell out of that fold up tray table. When the kid finally complained to his mother, I pretended to fall asleep when she peered back between the seats. Never mind tormenting me, now she decides to take an interest in the kid. Childish and immature, yes. But I'd gladly do it again.... kid was a brat!
I'm courteous. Actually, more like neurotic and courteous. I try to take every precaution when we fly. We usually book super early flights so the kids can sleep through the whole thing. I'm talking about those flights where you have to leave your house while it's still dark! If the kids do wake up, I'll usually have them walk all the way to the terminal. If that's not enough, I'll have them run back and forth and really tire them out. Remember, this is like 6:00 in the morning, no one is around. If all else fails, I usually have about 15 pairs of earplugs for people sitting around me. If the kids start to scream, I'm pretty quick to offer them up. I once saw a mom give her 2 toddlers "sleepy medicine" right before boarding. I asked my wife if we could do that and she was quick to say "no". I asked what it was and she said it was probably Benadryl and we were not going to drug our kids. So, back to running back and forth. Oh well, at least this mom was mindful of others, which is more than I can say about most.
In the end, I can't blame small children, or even the parents if they make a consorted effort. Just remember that not everyone has your high tolerance for your kid's screams and antics. If you ever see a guy running his kids back and forth at the Las Vegas airport with earplugs falling out of his pockets, it's a good bet that it's me. Probably the only sure bet you'll find in this town!
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