B.F.
We have flown with my daughter 4 times since she was 4 months old (she is now 18 months old). From my exprience the airlines have not really done anything to better accomodate. They are not rude or anything, but you have to ask to board early. I remember years ago the airlines used to allow people with small children or those needing extra time to board first. Well, I haven't heard that announcement in a long time and was told that you need to request at the gate to allow extra boarding time. So, I would definitely do that. Also, give your 4 month old a bottle as you are taking off. I have made the mistake of feeding my daughter when we got on the plane and then the bottle ran out more than once because of delays during takeoff. I would imagine for your 2 year old to pack a variety of fun "stuff" and snacks. My friend also takes along their portable DVD because that has either entertained her son OR has helped him to fall asleep. I also read in a parents magazine to bring along a bag of Hershey Kisses to pass out to surrounding flyers with the theory being that no one can get mad at a mom who gives out Kisses. I have not tried that. I will say that my daughter flew the best when she was 4 months old. She pretty much slept the entire flight from Dallas to Philadelphia. When I have flown alone with my daughter the people at security and the gate have always helped me with my stroller and then on the plane people have always helped me with my luggage if I needed it.
Have fun in Orlando. We are going in October and I am hoping that my then 20 month old will not be so "squirmy"