I'm flying out to Pennsyvania this coming Sunday with my daughter. She is 3 yrs old and so far has been a good traveler. I've heard some conflicting statements with regards to proper seating for the children. Some places say that I need a car seat for her. Others say that I don't. I called the airline and they told me I could if I wanted but at her age I didn't have to. I'm worried though (I'm a worrier like my mother

) because I heard from a friend that they were just recently behind someone in the security line and that they wouldn't allow a man to take his car seat for his child through the line. He had to check it. Not sure what to do. I'm taking the car seat one way or another because I need it while I'm in Pa.
I've flown with my daughter before (once) but that was before my airport got new security equipment and new policies. I've called them and checked but the women sounded more or less lasse fare about the car seats - I don't want to trust her judgement. (The worrier again)
I'm wondering what your recent experiences have been when flying with young children? Also looking for more ideas for in flight activities for my daughter? I didn't have to worry as much about it because the last time the flights fell around her normal nap and bed times and she slept half the trip away. This time will be middle of the day out and morning back. I'm taking coloring books and crayons, a couple books, but any other ideas for things without pieces to get lost? Thanks