Top tips to prevent children from kicking your plane seat

With school holidays and the festive season fast approaching, many families are gearing up for travel. As delightful as vacations can be, the experience can quickly sour when you find yourself seated in front of a child who seems determined to turn your plane seat into a soccer ball. Misbehaving kids on planes can be a significant source of annoyance for travellers. 

James Dooley, an experienced entrepreneur and backer of Soft Surfaces, shares his top tips to mitigate this travel discomfort and ensure a more pleasant journey for everyone.

How to stop children from kicking your plane seat: 7 tips

Communicate politely

“A gentle and polite request often works wonders,” says James. “Parents are usually unaware of their child’s actions and are willing to intervene once they are informed.”

Engage with the child

Sometimes, acknowledging the child and engaging them in a friendly manner can help. James suggests, “A simple ‘Hi there, are you excited about your trip?’ can create a positive interaction, making the child less likely to kick your plane seat out of boredom or frustration.”

Offer to swap seats

If the child is having difficulty settling down, offering to swap seats with the parent can be effective. “Parents often appreciate this gesture as it allows them to better manage their child’s behaviour,” notes James.

Distract the child

Carrying small toys, colouring books, or electronic devices with child-friendly content can be a lifesaver. “Offering a toy or suggesting a game on their device can keep the child entertained,” says James.

Or if you don’t have toys, make them a paper plane or play a game like I-spy.

Use a seat cushion

Placing a cushion or blanket between the plane seat and your back can absorb some of the impact and make it less bothersome. James advises, “This physical barrier can reduce the sensation of kicks, making it less irritating.”

Speak to a flight attendant

If the problem persists, speaking to a flight attendant is a good next step. “Flight attendants are trained to handle such situations and can often assist in finding a resolution,” recommends James.

Remain calm and patient

Maintaining a calm demeanor is crucial. “Reacting angrily will often escalate the situation,” James warns. “Patience and understanding go a long way in resolving conflicts.”

By employing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of being disturbed by a child’s misbehaviour on a plane. As James emphasizes, “A little empathy and a few proactive steps can make all the difference in ensuring a pleasant flight experience.”