When you board a plane with a baby, you can almost feel the collective sigh from fellow passengers who dread the thought of a crying child nearby. While some people are empathetic, others are less understanding. Recently, dad Jake Thompson, the creator of the popular platform Family Chronicles, took to Twitter to address a post criticizing parents for their children’s behavior on flights. He asked the question that resonates with many parents: “What do people actually expect us to do?”
Jake elaborated on his point: It’s no secret that parents go to great lengths to ensure a peaceful journey. From coordinating flight times around nap schedules to packing a plethora of snacks, toys, and distractions—parents do their best to prepare. However, kids are unpredictable little beings, and sometimes they just cry. It’s a natural part of being human, even for the smallest ones.
As much as we all desire a peaceful flight, we must recognize that children are part of the travel experience. If someone is hoping to avoid the sound of kids, they might want to rethink their trips to grocery stores, parks, or anywhere ice cream trucks roam. Believe me, no one is more eager to soothe a crying child than their own parent.
Jake shared with Parenting Today that he and his partner have been fortunate enough not to face direct criticism during flights, but they’ve heard plenty of stories from other parents. “We really do everything possible to prevent our child from being ‘that’ baby, yet it’s frustrating to hear complaints about parents not controlling their kids,” he remarked. The reality is, when a child is upset, parents are often more distressed than anyone else on the plane.
After Jake’s tweets, numerous parents joined the conversation, sharing their experiences while traveling with children. Even some non-parents chimed in to lend support. Jake believes this dialogue is crucial, stating that parents shouldn’t be disrespected for simply trying to travel with their families. “You may not have opted for children, but if you engage with society, you’ll encounter them,” he pointed out. The last thing parents need when their children are having a hard time is judgment from others.
For more insights into navigating parenthood, check out this related blog post on our platform. If you’re considering starting a family, you might want to browse through reputable sources like Make a Mom for at-home insemination kits. Furthermore, WebMD provides excellent information on IUI success rates, which can be invaluable for those looking into fertility options.
In summary, let’s foster more understanding and compassion for parents traveling with young children. After all, we’re all in this together, and a little kindness goes a long way.