Top Ten Ways to Prevent Car Sickness in Children

My husband has had a problem with motion sickness ever since he was a child. He remembers often feeling nauseous while riding in the backseat of the car. Since his mother was a nurse, she had a few ideas up her sleeve. A few ideas worked, a few didn't, but since everyone is different, different things will work for different people. I compiled a list of ten tips that have been known to help children with motion sickness.

Having a View out the Window

One thing that helped my husband was having a clear view out of the front window. When he was growing up, children were not confined to car seats or seat belts. He used to sit on top of pillows to have a better view. Today there are booster seats you can buy for children so they can see up and over the seat.

Give up the Front Seat

If your child is old enough to sit in the front seat, it may be wise to let them sit there. The back seat takes all the bumps of the road; the front seat will offer a smoother ride and a better view.

Ginger

If your child can easily swallow pills, try ginger capsules. You can find bottles of ginger at most department stores in the vitamin aisle. Ginger candy also helps relieve motion sickness, but the taste is acquired. Ginger-ale can be used as well, but it doesn't seem to be as effective as the capsules or candy.

Do Not Eat Heavy Meals

Use common sense before taking your child on a car trip. If he/she has a tendency to have motion sickness, eating a lot beforehand is not going to help with your child's problem.

No Empty Stomachs

Riding in the car on an empty stomach can also be a nuisance. You do not want your child to have any sort of stomach discomfort that can lead to feeling nauseous. The best thing to do is have your child eat some crackers or something bland before you head out on your trip.

Dramamine Chewables

Dramamine makes chewable tablets in orange flavor. It is best if your child takes it one half hour to one hour before the car ride. Make sure to read directions and the list of warnings on the package for correct usage.

Music

Believe it or not, music can help. Having an mp3 player with your child's favorite music can help sooth and distract your child from feeling badly.

Make stops

If you are traveling a long way, make stops. Get out of the car with your child and walk around, have a snack of cheese and crackers, and get some fresh air.

Fresh Air

Fresh air is important to children with motion sickness. Crack a window or make sure your child has access to the car's air vent. Being hot and stuck in stale air only worsens the feeling of nausea.

Peppermint

If your child is old enough so choking issues are not a consideration, try peppermint hard candies. In the herbal world, peppermint is known to help stave off nausea. Sipping on peppermint tea could help as well; although, that is often an acquired taste.

If All Else Fails

If your child has an ongoing motion sickness problem, consult with your doctor. Your pediatrician can go over other options with you and perhaps prescribe medication for a smoother and happier travel time.