A social story for flying on an airplane
A social story for flying on an airplane: the security line, waiting at the gate, finding our seats, the seat belt, ears that pop, and sitting until we land.
On a plane trip, we go through security, wait at the gate, and sit in our seats with belts on until we land. It can be noisy and take a long time. My grown-up stays with me the whole way.
The story
Carol Gray's 10.2 criteria describe a story that shares accurate information in a patient, reassuring voice, often from the child's point of view (Social Stories 10.2 Criteria, accessed November 12, 2026). These lines are first person.
Going on a Plane
Today my family is going on an airplane.
At the airport, we show our tickets. Bags go through a machine.
Sometimes I take off my shoes or jacket. I get them back.
We wait at the gate. I can look out the window at the planes.
When it is our turn, we walk onto the plane and find our seats.
I wear my seat belt when the light is on.
The engines are loud when we take off. My ears might feel full.
I can swallow, yawn, drink or chew to help my ears.
I stay in my seat. I can read, color, watch a show, or sleep.
When we land, we wait until it is our turn to get off.
A little support for the week ahead.
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Ears and the pressure change
KidsHealth explains that ear pain on planes comes from pressure changes, and that swallowing, chewing, yawning or sucking on a bottle or pacifier during takeoff and landing can help (Flying and Your Child's Ears, accessed November 12, 2026). Add the one your child will use.
Practice the airport parts
Play airport at home: a "security" basket for shoes, a line of chairs for seats, and a pretend seat belt. Watch a short video of a plane taking off so the sound is familiar.
Make it match your trip
Name who is traveling, where you are going, and who will meet you. If there is a layover, add a line about getting off and on a second plane.
Pack for the long sit
A small bag with new stickers, a snack, headphones and a favorite toy gives your child things to do. Put "I can choose a new activity" in the story.
More free stories arrive by email from the Social Stories list.
FAQ
When should I start reading it?
A few days to a week before the trip.
What if my child cries on the plane?
That is okay. Add a line: "Sometimes I cry. My grown-up helps me."
Do I mention turbulence?
A short line helps: "Sometimes the plane bumps a little, like a car on a bumpy road."
Sources & further reading
- Social Stories 10.2 Criteria (Carol Gray, PDF). Accessed November 12, 2026., Carol Gray Social Stories
- Flying and Your Child's Ears (Nemours KidsHealth). Accessed November 12, 2026., Nemours KidsHealth
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