It's a parents worst nightmare: taking a long airplane trip with a child. It's not just getting the child to sit still for several hours, it's trying to keep him or her busy, interested and quiet! Sound like an impossible task? Not necessarily. Here are some tried and true tips for making your child the perfect airline traveling companion:

- Pack plenty of books and games, especially handheld electronic games (don?t forget the batteries!)

- Bring along coloring books and crayons.

- Carry a cassette player with your child's favorite music or prerecorded stories.

- Bring a map and let your child have the window seat. Point out landmarks and have your child try to find them on the map.

- Take advantage of in-flight movies, if age appropriate.

- Pack a plastic Ziploc bag with crackers or cookies.

- Bring paper and pens/pencils for drawing or for older children to "journal" about their experiences.