How do I keep a toddler busy on a plane - HELP!!!

[monkeybumsmum]

We fly quite a bit, only shorthaul, and I am finding it increasingly difficult to entertain DS (16 months). He's very energetic, and doesn't like sitting on anyone's knee for longer than about 30 seconds.

Does anyone have any tips on how I can keep him occupied on my knee? I'm starting to dread flying with him as each time is more difficult!

I've tried feeding him through the flight, poor thing - he loves food and comes out the other end like a barrel. It doesn't seem to be working the older he gets because he eats faster than he used to. I can't bear the fact that he gets so upset by being constrained, but I've run out of idea's of how to make it easier for him.

I would love any advice please!

Thanks so much for all your great idea's! PussinJimmyChoos, I did laugh at your post .

Am off this afternoon to buy a portable DVD player and a Pingu DVD! DH cringing at thought of cost, so I've just blamed you lot as a bad influence

Sorry -Thomas the Tank Engine. Its code for Thomas in our house when we dont want DS to get all overexcited about it.

i went to the pound shop and bought cheap and nasty don't last long presents. then wrapped them up. every time we walked up and down the isle etc we would return to the seat and a new present would be waiting. also, take a little battery timer or similar and sit in the seat and when the timer goes off thats when you are 'allowed' to go for a walk 'because thats what the lady says'

Stickers

DVD player

Walking up and down the aisle - you'll always find some mad old bird who'll want to chat to the lo.

Small notebook and crayons/pens

Food

Medised - Puss is on the button esp for long-haul.

As everyone esle says, cram a backpack full of 15min activities. Eke tham out and only one thing at a time. (not all out at once as they were when my dh was in charge). items can be rotated, so when you have gone through them all, start again. Hide favourite toys for a few weeks before you go so you can use those. Party bag -type toys are fab, although 16months is trickier than older dcs who can be bribed!

Those magic painting books that only need a paintbrush and cup of water. I figured a bit of spilt water wouldn't matter.

Stickers can be be stuck everywhere, seats windows, clothes as well as books. Fuzzy felt also good but would that be too old?

I think we got through a transatlantic flight at about that age by having a large drawing pad and drawing all sorts of animals that ds requested. We made up stories about them and used some other small plastic animals that I took.

A few snacks/drinks.

To save space, put things in zip up plastic bags.

Good luck