spot, your child may be more likely to stay seated if they see the car seat they’re used to sitting in," says King. "Getting into their car seat is a routine that’s familiar to them."

Provide entertainment. "I loan my mom our backpack that only comes out when we’re traveling on an airplane," says Maria Kniestedt, mother of 7-year-old Zach and 3-year-old Ella. "In it are things they haven’t played with before, so it’s all new, different and exciting, just like I hope our trip will be."

Kniestedt’s suggests some easy-to-pack items: pop-up books, stickers, coloring books and washable crayons or markers. "Zach likes activity books that have crossword puzzles, connect-the-dots and number games, like Sudoku," she says. Don’t forget that special blankie, doll or stuffed animal. Put it in your carry-on luggage and grab it before you’re buckled in your seat.

Eileen Ognitz, a family travel expert whose columns appear online at takingthekids.com, recommends packing a surprise to pull out when you get to the gate or board the plane. "Bring a new book for your preschooler, action figure for the six-year-old, an electronic game for your middle-schooler and a CD for the teen," says Ognitz. "On the trip home, give them that extra souvenir you told them you wouldn’t buy. They’ll be too busy to think about how long the trip is taking."

Treats to eat. This is the time to bend the rules on what’s an acceptable snack. Typically, you don’t allow your grandchild chewing gum or sugary fruit snacks, but challenging situations call for flexibility. Tell your grandson that this is a special situation. "If you’re traveling during feeding time, make certain to have packed enough food for the trip," King reminds.

When you touch down. Everyone wants to be rewarded for a job well done. Reinforce the positive behavior your grandchild exhibited while in flight. Tell her how much she helped the flight attendants and the pilot. Many airlines, like Southwest, offer "wings" for first-time flyers. Ask about them when you board your plane.

For more information, ideas and tips, visit these sites:

www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/

www.familytravelguides.com/tips.html

www.flyingwithkids.com

www.takingthekids.com

www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children

Claire Yezbak Fadden is the Associate Editor of LifeAfter50.com.