Joanna Fortune: How can I control my young children on their first flight? 

I’m already dreading the trip. What would you suggest?

Take a playful approach to your planning for your children's first time on a plane.

We’re going on holidays at the end of June. It’s my children’s first time on a plane. The oldest is five and gets anxious easily, while the youngest, at three, is a tearaway and difficult to control. I’m already dreading the trip, though it’s weeks away. What would you suggest?

The key here is to plan for the journey. Ensure that you have a small backpack for each of them, containing the bits and pieces they like. These might include colouring books, a beloved teddy, and a small travel game, such as Connect 4. Also, ensure you have snacks they enjoy, as they may not like what is offered on the flight.