1) Two-year-olds want the window seat but can’t actually see out of the tiny airplane windows when they are belted securely into their CARES restraint system (which, in leading mama’s humble opinion, is one of the best devices ever made for toddler travel). My son’s straining and grunting attempts to see the “choo choos” on the tarmac that carry the luggage to and from the aircraft were amusing for the first 5 minutes, and then…not so amusing.
2) Air travel is exciting – so exciting that some toddlers won’t sleep even if they haven’t slept in days. (Okay, not days, but it felt like it!) Fortunately, the rush of jet lag catches up with the weary toddler just as his mama tries to drift off to sleep at 2 a.m. in an Italian hotel.
3) Jet lag is like kryptonite to even the most super of parents. Why else would I say “do you want to watch Ice Age: The Meltdown in bed?” or “Let’s have pizza again tonight”?
4) A one-to-one parent to toddler ratio reminds you that wherever you are, no matter how tired or frustrated or lost, you are completely responsible for your child’s welfare. This is a heady realization when times are good and a frightening one when times are bad. I came to this conclusion after a 4-hour fiasco in the Rome train station. There’s a lot to be said for having some back-up.
5) Even if your toddler won’t patiently visit art galleries and operas abroad, you’ll see the world in a whole new way through his eyes (and hands and mouth). You’ll notice rocks and birds. You’ll dip your fingers into the cool glassy green water in the piazza fountain. And you won’t miss the chance to see street performers juggle glass balls and bowling pins because it is time for the Pope’s appearance at the Vatican, either. Because wherever you Rome, you’re still a mama first and foremost.
