Traveling With Babies and Kids

 

                                       Navigating Airport Security With Children

 

Over the last several years, airport security measures have changed quite a bit. If you haven’t flown in a while, there are a few things you should know.  

 

Strollers, car seats, toys and all other objects must go through the security X ray machine. Fold your stroller and make sure to remove small toys or other items from storage pockets before putting it on the conveyer belt. Put them in the plastic bins provided This way nothing gets lost. Make sure to warn your child about the process and reassure them you will get your items back.

 

Never put your car seat through the metal detector with your child still in it

 

When going through the walk through metal detector, you will probably need to remove your baby from sling or baby carrier so the baby carrier can be inspected.

 

Instruct your children to empty their pockets before going through the metal detector, also remind them that the security check point is not the place for games or loud, boisterous behavior.

 

Have your older child go through the metal detector in front of you so that you can keep visual contact with her/him.  Carry younger children.

 

You are not allowed to pass your child to anyone else while you are going through the metal detector.

 

If the metal detector goes off and you are carrying your child, both you and the child will further examined by security. You will probably be asked to remove your shoes and they may scan you and your child with a wand.

 

Never hand your child to the security guard to hold.

 

If traveling with a baby or toddler, you are able to carry breast milk or formula in your carry on bag.

 

You can request a private security screening if you are traveling with more than one child, or if your child has a disability and requires special care.

                        Obtaining a Passport For Your Children

  

When traveling out of the United States, your child, regardless of age, will need his/her own passport. To obtain a passport you will need to go to your local passport office and fill out the required forms. You will be required to show proof of identification for yourself and your child.

 

You can apply for a passport at most city offices. Check your local government listings for exact locations.

 

When you fill out the passport application you will need to have with you proof of US citizenship, proof of identity, two recent pictures, and the correct amount in fees.

 

You must have certified copies of all birth certificates submitted. The passport office will take your birth certificates with your application. They will be returned to you, by mail, with your new passport.

 

Photographs must be exactly 2 in X 2 in. and no more than 1 3/8 in from the bottom of your chin to the top of your hair. The image must be of you alone and no less than 1 in. Additionally, you must not be wearing any type of head covering or dark glasses, unless they are certified religious or medical in nature.

 

Also, for your children you will need  proof that you are the child’s parent or guardian, including a notarized statement signed by both parents or evidence you are the child’s only legal guardian. The US Department of State will provide you with these forms.

 

Keep in mind, the child must accompany the parent to the passport office. You can not apply for your child’s passport without them.

 

Plan well ahead and allow at least eight weeks to receive your passports. When you turn in your application and supporting documents, you will be given a website address where you can check on the status of your passport..

     Coping With Your Child’s Food Allergies While Traveling

    Childhood food allergies can be deadly. Take care to protect your child while traveling.

 

If possible, make sure your child knows and understands the foods they are allergic to and what happens when they eat that food. If traveling to visit friends or family, be sure to inform them of the child’s allergy. Ask them to be diligent in reading labels while your child is visiting.

 

Some airlines list flight meals on their website. Most airlines provide special meals for those with food allergies, if you notify them in advance. Check with your airline for details. However, there is no guarantee that your meal will not be prepared or come in contact with something you are allergic to. Avoid potential problems on the road or airplane by making and packing trip snacks yourself.

 

When eating out, be sure to ask servers about offending ingredients and avoid roadside stands and unlicensed eating establishments.

 

Different countries have different food labeling laws. Make sure you know the labeling laws and customs for the country you are visiting. Also, you and your child must know how to effectively communicate the name of the food and severity of the allergy in the language of every country you visit.

 

The food allergic child should wear medical alert bracelet at all times. In an emergency, parents my not be available to give information to medical personnel.

 

Carry your child’s allergy medication and emergency injectable with you at all times. The medications should go where ever the child goes.

 

Keep doctor’s phone number and local emergency numbers handy.

 

If traveling out of the country consider purchasing pre-printed cards with your child’s food allergy information printed on them. You order cards from a company called Select Wisely. Cards come in many languages and cover any allergy or combination of allergies.