United is rolling out complimentary child amenity kits on every mainline flight.

While many international airlines have offered family-friendly perks like 'flying nannies,' toys, and play areas, domestic U.S. flights have typically provided less support for families. Parents flying with kids may enjoy early boarding, but keeping children entertained at 36,000 feet has often been left to them.

However, United Airlines is changing the game by offering parents some assistance to make flying more enjoyable (and safe) for their kids.

Following a successful trial in select regions, United Airlines now provides free children's activity kits on all mainline flights, with flight attendants distributing them during service.

These children's activity kits feature a variety of fun items:

• A mask designed for children.
• A travel journal activity book accompanied by crayons.
• Materials for an origami paper airplane project.
• A sanitizing wipe.
• An eco-friendly, recyclable paper bag.

When traveling with children, even the smallest comforts can make a significant difference when confined to a seat in an aircraft for long periods.

In the past, when my kids were younger, we often found that even the images in the inflight magazines could provide a moment of distraction when we exhausted our usual entertainment options. United's children's activity kits may be straightforward, but sometimes simplicity is exactly what you need at 30,000 feet. Having items specifically designed for kids can offer both them and their parents a delightful break during the journey.

Additionally, especially in today's climate, having an extra kid-sized mask and a sanitizing wipe readily available is certainly beneficial.

United Airlines is currently upgrading its aircraft to reintroduce personal built-in inflight entertainment screens and has made these entertainment options complimentary. Both of these initiatives are excellent steps toward enhancing the flying experience for travelers of all ages.