anyone have a dc afraid to fly?

we're planning a trip to disney and dd keeps talking about not wanting to fly and getting really worked up over it. she's never even flown before. DH is also afraid to fly but was going to for the trip. What can I do for her? Should we just drive? She's almost 5.

anyone have a dc afraid to fly?

Has she ever flown before? If not, has she heared your DH talking about being afraid to fly? Honestly, and I know this might sound harsh and cruel, but I would not change my plans and drive a +/-24 hour drive. I would try to get to the root of the problem first. Talk to your pediatrician and see what they suggest too. Have her talk to family members that have been to disney and flown about how quick you will get there (only have to watch one movie on the plane sort of thing) and how the characters want her to get there as soon as possible. Do you know of any of her friends who have gone and flown? Maybe have a playdate and prompt the other child to talk about how much fun disney is, etc.

Good luck !!

Re: anyone have a dc afraid to fly?

She has never flown, says she's afraid of being high up. DH has never expressed his fear. As much as I'm dreading a loooooong roadtrip I'm dreading a plane ride more because once she is worked up she's one of those kids who doesn't easily calm down and that would ruin EVERYONEs flying experience.

She has several friends who have flown, so I like the idea of her talking to them.

anyone have a dc afraid to fly?

Poor girl. It stinks that you have to worry yourself over it when this is supposed to be a fun trip!! I would talk to your ped too. Maybe they can recommend a therapist you can take her too a few times to work through it? Obviously there are things you can give her to keep her calm (by NO means am I promoting to drug a child) but as an adult who has an anxiety about flying, sometimes taking the edge off gets me through the 2 hour flight.