You’ve read all the tips for toddler travel: bring new toys, wrap them as gifts, encourage naps (Benadryl always an option), ply with candy (most effective: long-lasting lollipops). But the simplest and longest-duration amusement for toddlers and preschoolers on a long flight is TV or a DVD. But there’s a pitfall to this easy, drug-free travel solution, and it’s name is battery-life. I’d like to suggest a few ways you can mitigate this when flying with small children.

1. Before buying your ticket, check seatguru.com.There you can see if your aircraft…