No Bake Chocolate Cherry Energy Balls and Toddler Airplane Tips
Siena’s first time on an airplane is something I didn’t envision happening until she was ten. Until she was potty trained, possessed some form of maturity, ability reason, and self control. The ability to communicate clearly and understand basic social norms. That is not what a 2 year old is all about. Therefore, I felt why put myself through that. Then came Disney, then came a family who said they would disown me if I didn’t. Hence, the last minute decision to roll the dice and not only put Siena on a plane, but take her to Disney. I could write a whole post on the mental toll it took on me leading up to event. The way I had to prepare myself. But that is a whole other post. For now let me tell you what I brought on the trip. What I did to get through it. It probably isn’t much different from anything else you have seen when scouring pinterest.
I knew snacks were going to be key. Siena can be silenced with snacks at any time no matter the situation. However, I was concerned about her loading up on all “bribery” snacks. Because those would only lead to a sugar crash. I wanted her to have some healthy options. Knowing that if I could get protein in her, it would make her happiest.
I made her these no bake energy bites and had her try them prior. She loved them! They are like half fun snack and half serious. I could almost pass if off as a treat. I brought a hummus single and her favorite crackers. Also, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, along with dried cherries. I also brought dried apricots but she wasn’t so into those. I put them in a fun new container. I think that is part of the key to success. Having some new items to up the appeal.
I also found some carrot chips which I tried out. They were good for kids and adults. Siena is a fan of carrots. If your child is a fan of any vegetable try finding the dry crunchy version.
I also bought a lollipop with a cool lollipop holder for her to have during take off to help with ear popping. However, we also got her a smoothie to sip on and that worked much better. She also was excited to she got to use her pacifier outside of the crib. Which is a current rule! So we exploited that to our advantage. I tend to get a little queasy feeling on landings so I carry ginger chews with me. I am a fan of the Prince of Peace brand, mango is one of my favs!
Then I had bribery snacks. Those included fruit snacks, chocolate chip cookies, m&ms, and lollipops. All things she doesn’t get on a regular basis.
Other things I did:
-Kept the morning routine as close to normal as I could before leaving. Had breakfast made the night before. Even had her plate and utensils set up the night before. Any step I could eliminate meant a moment longer she could just chill and I didn’t have to rush her. All bags were packed and by the front door.
-We watched Youtube videos about airplanes. Let her hear how loud take off was. We also took out books from the library, Like Maisy Goes on an Airplane. Walked her through the process each night.
-She has not used headphones or an ipad yet. We had her try out the head phones and get used to them prior to flight. She was so excited to use the ipad and play games. It was all new to her!
- Also brought two small containers of playdoh because it doesn’t make much mess. Magic coloring books that make no mess. And a compact toy that had figurines.
-She even fell asleep for like 30 minutes! So before you bust out everything to play with try to see if they will chill out with you first. I had her lovey and a comfy blanket. It worked on the way there but not on the way back.
Chocolate Cherry Energy Balls
ingredients
1/3 cup dried cherries
10 pitted dates
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp chia seeds
1/2 cup unsalted cashews
1/2 cup of a vanilla or honey granola
1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
instructions
Add all ingredients to the food processor EXCEPT the chocolate blend until ingredients are well combined. Then add oats and pulse until all combined.
Roll them into two inch balls and place in the refrigerator to firm. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
RECIPE NOTES: