Going on an Airplane: A Free Social Story
For children ages 4-10 · Free to read, print, and personalize
Air travel packs a full day of transitions, waiting, and unfamiliar noises into a single experience, which is a lot for any child and especially for kids with autism or anxiety. This story previews everything from security to popping ears so nothing comes as a surprise. Read it daily in the week before the flight, and bring it along for the airport wait.
Going on an Airplane
Soon I will go on an airplane trip.
An airplane is a big machine that flies people to faraway places.
First, we go to the airport. It is big and busy, with lots of people and announcements.
At security, our bags ride through a special scanner, and I walk through a doorway machine.
Sometimes we wait a long time at the gate. I can play, read, or have a snack while we wait.
When it is time, we walk down a hallway called a jet bridge onto the plane.
I find my seat and buckle my seatbelt. The seatbelt keeps me safe.
At takeoff, the plane goes fast and gets loud. The loud part is normal.
My tummy might feel funny for a moment as we go up, like on a swing.
My ears might feel full or popping. Chewing, yawning, or sipping a drink helps.
Up in the sky, I can look at clouds, watch a show, or rest.
When the plane lands, we wait our turn to walk off.
Then our adventure begins in a new place.
Airplanes are one way families go on adventures together.
Tips for Reading This Story Together
- Pack a dedicated flight bag your child helps fill: headphones, snacks for ear pressure, a new small toy, and a comfort item.
- Watch kid-friendly videos of takeoff and airport security together so the sights and sounds are familiar.
- Ask your airport about programs for practicing travel with special-needs families; many offer rehearsal days or quiet rooms.
- Board strategically: some families board early to settle, others board last to minimize seated waiting; pick what fits your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare an autistic child for their first flight?
Layer supports: read this story daily for a week, watch real takeoff videos, pack familiar sensory tools, and consider TSA Cares, a free program that assists travelers with disabilities through security. Many airports also run practice-boarding events. The free builder can personalize the story with your child's name and destination to make the trip feel real before it happens.
What helps kids' ears on a plane?
Swallowing is the fix, so time it: a drink, chewy snacks, or a lollipop during takeoff and especially descent. For babies, nurse or offer a bottle on the way up and down. Landing bothers ears more than takeoff, so save some of the chewy supplies.
What if my child melts down mid-flight?
Have a rehearsed calm-down kit within reach: headphones, a favorite video downloaded, a weighted lap item, and snacks. Most meltdowns burn out faster when you stay calm and skip apologizing to the cabin; your child is your only audience that matters. A quick reread of the story's next steps can also reorient them to what happens next.
Make This Story About Your Child
Add your child's name, family members, and favorite things — our free builder creates an illustrated, printable version of this story that is truly theirs. The story world and learning goals are already set up for you. Built by the nonprofit Opportunity Hack, always free.
Create Your Free Story