Prevent Car Sickness in Children: 3 Tips Recommended by Experts

Did you know most children outgrow car sickness as they age? And were you aware carsickness in children is more common than in adults? This may be caused by the fact most children can’t see past the seat in front of them. 

When you’re on a long car ride, most children take a book or a toy to focus on, right? That may be the cause of car sickness in some children — because they’re looking down instead of upward. Their inner ear knows the car is moving, but their eyes are looking somewhere else. 

You’ll be happy to know there are a few ways you can help prevent car sickness in children. Keep reading to discover three, expert-recommended tips, for preventing carsickness in children. 

1. Change Focus 

Your child’s car sickness may be caused by looking down. If you know your child gets carsick during long trips, put them into the middle seat. Sitting in the center seat gives your child a clear view of the window so they can look up instead of down. 

Activities may be a great way to keep your kids occupied, but it doesn’t do much to prevent car sickness. 

2. Food 

Some people enjoy spicy foods. but spicy food doesn’t help motion sickness Eating bland food while on a trip may prevent car sickness. Crackers, granola bars, and plain cereal make great snacks for any road trip. 

Sugared snacks and drinks may be difficult for your child to digest. So, they’re more likely to experience car sickness. 

3. Medication 

One great way to prevent motion sickness is by taking medicine beforehand. Benadryl and Dramamine are the most common medications people take for motion sickness.

But, before giving your child medication, ask their doctor which is best for them. Benadryl and Dramamine work best if taken one hour before your trip. There are many other products you can use to prevent car sickness in children, too. 

Read the product’s label to make sure you give your child the correct dosage. And make sure to pay attention to any side effects written on the label, too. 

Look For Signs of Motion Sickness

If you’re unsure whether or not your child suffers from carsickness, learn the symptoms. The symptoms for motion sickness include the following: 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Sweating
• Dizziness

If your child experiences any of these symptoms while in a vehicle, they may have motion sickness. Their symptoms may also be the work of an ear infection. 

How to Prevent Car Sickness in Children

Preventing car sickness in children may seem complicated for a parent. Some parents may not even know their children have motion sickness.

There are a few signs to watch out for when traveling in the car. Report your findings to your family doctor and they’ll help you gauge the situation.

One of the most effective ways to prevent carsickness is by taking medicine. Some medicines for carsickness include Gravol, Benadryl, and Dramamine. To learn more about avoiding motion sickness, visit our website.