The following is a guest post by Kristen K. Brown, bestselling author and stress expert

The holidays can be very stressful for moms and dads, but parents often forget that kids get stressed out too. A new environment, travel or new routine can make children cranky and even cause illness.

Below are some tips that can help ease one of the biggest stressors for kids (and parents) – airplane travel. My daughter is almost six now but these tips have been invaluable for me the last few years.

1. Stockpile a bunch of new toys and games your child has not seen before and pull them out periodically during the trip

2. Have a variety of snacks available.

3. Bring a portable DVD player with headphones or an iPod loaded up with favorite television shows and movies.

4. Bring ColorWonder paints and markers. They only show up on special paper and don’t make a mess.

5. Keep a written and/or video journal of the trip with your child including drawings, stories and pictures.

6. If your child is under two years old and you can afford it, buy them their own seat. You will be glad to have the extra space and it will make naps and meals a lot easier.

7. Have favorite blankets and stuffed animals in your child’s own backpack or bag.

8. If all else fails, walk the aisles. Fellow passengers would rather have a quiet child walking than a crying child stuck in their seat.

What are your favorite tips for keeping kids happy while traveling?

Kristen K. Brown is a bestselling and award-winning author, widow mom, speaker and founder of Happy Hour Effect. Check out her books “The Best Worst Thing” and “The Happy Hour Effect: 12 Secrets to Minimize Stress and Maximize Life” at www.HappyHourEffect.com.