Traveling during the hectic holiday season is always nerve-racking, and the new TSA rules are tending to be cause for greater tension. There is concern for the x-rays that the new scanning system emits are a health issue. Our best recommendation is to check with your child’s pediatrician for their opinion. A quick call to the pediatrician’s office can alleviate anxiety for parents, and help guide them in the best choice for their child.
If the recommendation from the pediatrician is to Opt-out of the body scan in favor of a pat-down, we suggest that the parent lead by example. Ask if you can be patted-down first, so that your child can watch. Say hello to the TSA agent and address them by name. Ask your child to watch what happens. Then when it is your child’s turn, make sure that you introduce your child by name. Be polite to the TSA agent, it may help to calm your child to see that you are not alarmed by what is happening. Your child should never be out of your sight during any screen procedures. TSA agents are currently doing a modified pat-down on children.
Describe to your child before you get to the airport what is going to happen, so that it doesn’t take them by surprise. Explain to your child that you must be present in order for anyone to touch them, including doctors. Make it clear that you will never allow anyone to hurt them, and no one will even try as long as you are present.
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