Just to add some experiences…
I’ve a 4 yo, a 2yo and 6 wo. Zurich does a VIP service, where you can get met at a special drop off location and taken to a special VIP lounge before getting on the plane, its 260 CHF for the principle and 100 CHF for the entourage. It appears that our family of five will get the whole thing for 360 CHF. You then get driven to the plane so as not to have to fight your way with the hoi-paloy. I’m not convinced it is a requirement for ZRH but it might be available at other airports for others so something you can check with the airport. The details are here:
VIP-Service
You also get checked in and the luggage is whisked away and of course security clearance etc is all done on a private level, no crowds, no carrying your own gear and nobody for your darlings to upset.
Also, like the DVD player, we have an archos Which has proved invaluable for the 4 yo since he was 3 yo.
The 2yo likes to stand on his seat and play with whoever is sitting behind us so on a up and coming long flight we’ll be def trying some of the great ideas from the earlier posters this time. Thanks!