For some kids, traveling down the highway or going for an afternoon drive can bring on a wave of the "ickies" ... feelings of nausea, headache, dizziness, and even vomiting. But before you dose your child with medicine, try these prevention tips first:
More Child Care Quick Tips
- Serve a light snack and drink before leaving. Yes, that may mean more stops for the bathroom, but when you have a carsick-prone tot, frequent stops and stretches aren't a bad thing. Just be sure the snacks aren't loaded with sugar and caffeine, or you'll have a different sort of problem on your hands.
- Forget the games and books. Focusing on video play, reading a book, or watching a video on a small screen can heighten the feeling of carsickness. Instead, play car games with your child that encourage her to look out the window and keep her eyes on the horizon. Interactive car-friendly activities also can help, such as giving your child a small tray to hold with modeling clay (if you dare) or building blocks or something to manipulate.
- Crack a window and keep fresh air on his face. The wind will often keep the feelings of nausea at bay. Just let your child determine the level of the "blast."
- If you need to use medicine, be sure to use child-friendly ones, and check with your child's pediatrician first, if possible, before administering. Medications that reduce nausea will typically cause significant drowsiness. On long car trips, that isn't necessarily a bad thing (although it can throw off schedules). Be prepared for sleep by giving your child a comfy pillow and blanket or drape to make the car ride as positive of an experience as possible.
