After planning your trip, getting to the airport parking lot on time, and then making it through the long security lines, you find that your flight has been delayed. If you are dreading that long airport layover you've got scheduled (or unscheduled) in the midst of your annual family summer vacation, why not turn it into an adventure? Here are a handful of ways to make the extra time at the airport enjoyable - and perhaps even have you and your family looking forward to your next layover.
The Airport is a Kids' Playground
From the moment you get out of your car in the airport parking lot, traveling is a big adventure to your kids.
Although you may find the familiar sights and loud sounds of an airport less than desirable, try seeing things through your kids' eyes. To them, it's a big playground. They will probably enjoy getting on and off the people mover sidewalks, watching luggage go around the baggage carousel, and seeing planes large and small take off and land. As long as you keep them fed, most children can stay amused by just taking in the whole airport experience. There's no reason you can't enjoy it with them!
Go Shopping
When you've got extra time on your hands and kids in tow, what better way to spend it than browsing through the airport shops? These days many upscale retailers pay for prime airport gift shop space and you are likely to find everything from designer handbags to fine gold and silver jewelry with real gemstones. For the kids, most airport gift shops offer little trinkets, toys, and candies to keep them amused on the ground and in the air. Who knows? You might even find a new book to read together or your family's favorite new travel game.
See the Sights
In addition to watching planes take off and land, your kids might be interested in strolling through the concourses. Most airports feature some kind of exhibit, whether it's works of art or local historical displays. You may also want to ask the gate attendant or airline desk personnel if there are any kid-friendly play areas available. Make sure you take a stroller along to the gate to make walking with little ones easier.
Play Airport Games
How about a game of "I Spy?" There are plenty of objects in an airport that your kids can easily discover on a casual walk or even while sitting at the gate. You could ask them to find things that start with an "A", then a "B", and go through the entire alphabet. If they are just learning to count, have them "help" you find the right gate. Before they know it, your kids will be boarding the plane with nary a complaint of boredom.
Why not have a picnic in the concourse? If you've packed little snacks and drinks from home (always a good idea to ensure your little ones don't go hungry), take over an area away from the crowds and spread out your family feast. Don't forget to include the stuffed animals in your "picnic", too! This is a much cheaper option than feeding the family in an airport restaurant and it's a lot more fun.
The next time you find yourself facing a longer than expected layover in the airport, think about it positively. Use the time to have fun with your kids - and be a kid yourself again!
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