How to Prevent Car Sickness in Children

Many children suffer the common fate of getting nauseous in a car ride. The basic cause of motion sickness during a car ride is attributed to mixed messages sent to the brain from the inner ear and eyes. These mixed messages are triggered when children are focused on objects near to them, usually within the vehicle for a period of time while the automobile moves. The eventual result is sweating, nausea, and potential vomiting. The drive to the destination whether it is a far away vacation spot or just to the grandmothers house only a half hour away may endure hills, stop and go traffic, and potential queasiness with your young travelers. There is nothing worse for a long car ride than to start out the journey with sick travelers. Consider these five sure fire ways to prevent car sickness in children.

Over the counter medicine

One of the easiest ways to prevent motion sickness in the young children is through such over the counter chewable medicine such as Dramamine or Bonine. These products work, but unfortunately have the side effect of drowsiness. Like all medicine administered to children, special attention should be paid to quantity directions with ages as well as how long the medicine will last. Typically a tablet of Dramamine will last about four.

Wrist Bands

Some pharmacies will sell wrist bands that keep motion sickness at bay. These are a good alternative to those that want to avoid the potentially drowsy side effects caused by over the counter medicines. The wrist bands are simple to use and are easy to stow away in the glove compartment when not in use. While wrist bands have been proven to work for some, this is not a 100 percent success rate amongst those young travelers prone to motion sickness. They key to the success behind wrist bands can be attributed to the acupressure placed on wrists which "tricks" the brain and keeps the inner ear and eye miscommunication at bay.

Frequent Stops

If traveling for great distances, be sure to make frequent stops. Allow the children to get out and get some fresh air. These frequent stops will do wonders to keeping the nausea away. A stoppage of movement will set the eyes, ears, and brain straight with the child stationary and fixated on what is going on outside the car. This will be a good opportunity for all to get out and stretch the legs and grab a drink.

Select a target outside the car

Children that are stuck in the car for a while should refrain from staring down at game systems, books, or any other attention getter that is within the car. Those prone to motion sickness should consider looking at objects outside the window. A game of "Slug bug" or "I spy" will help gear the child's attention outside the vehicle. If the child does have the itch to play a game or watch a movie, remind them every ten minutes to look outside the window for a minute or two to set the mind right.

Provide a comfortable ride for passengers to avoid motion sickness

Nothing will make a child or adult more car sick than a driver that randomly accelerates and decelerates with jerky movements in the car. These occasional stop and go movements will easily trigger sick feelings in the car. Make sure to allow a safe even following distance with the cars in front and behind the vehicle. Keep the air temperature of the car cool and perhaps crack a window to allow fresh air if necessary.