To some kids it means a bit of drooling. To others it may bring red cheeks, sore little buns, and raging irritability. Teething is tough – and even tougher if away from the comforts of home.
There are numerous tips for dealing with the “miserableness” of teething. Here are 7 that apply specifically to travel.
1. Do not forget the possibility of teething when your child is in-between teeth. It’s easy to forget teething when it’s not a current issue and overlook that little tooth waiting to announce itself at 37,000 feet. ALWAYS carry several items that provide symptomatic relief for a teething child (and those seated in the same cabin!). Kids start teething at the least opportune time and when you least expect it!
2. Do not use non-bottled airplane water on a wash cloth or object your child sucks on. Bring a wash cloth along and dip it in your bottled water instead. The water is OFTEN contaminated. Read here for more info.
3. Pack teething toys, chewable jewels, and washcloths in a ziploc bag to keep clean. If teething items drop on floor, do NOT wipe off and give back to child. Too many icky things on an airplane floor (just ask flight attendants). Do not allow the child to suck on an airplane seat. These seats are sprayed with chemicals and very dirty. Do not allow your child to suck on your fingers. Travel means touching international germs.
4. Keep the child well hydrated. Teething kids may not like to eat, but small sips of water helps keep them hydrated.
5. Pack extra diapers and diaper cream. Teething babies tend to have loose stools and sore buns.
6. Teething kids can have a low grade fever. Monitor this with a thermometer. Ask your pediatrician at what temperature you should react to the fever.
7. Pack extra patience and understanding. Communicate with those around you if irritability becomes an issue, but do not expect them to understand (those who are not parents or do not like kids have the right to not understand).
I also found the following products helpful for my teething son: Hyland’s Teething Tablets, Chewable Jewels, CVS/Playskool Teething Toys
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