For many parents, a simple car ride can turn into a stressful experience when their child starts feeling sick. Motion sickness in children—often called carsickness—is surprisingly common and can make road trips unpleasant for both kids and parents. But why do some children experience nausea and dizziness in the car while others don’t? Motion sickness happens when there’s a disconnect between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses, confusing the brain and triggering nausea. The good news? There are ways to prevent and manage motion sickness, from adjusting seating positions to using natural remedies or medication when needed.
Car sickness is a common issue among children, especially during long car trips. It’s caused by the brain receiving conflicting signals from the inner ear and eyes, resulting in dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Car sickness can have a significant impact on a mother’s daily routine, especially if her child is frequently experiencing it.
Car trips to school, extracurricular activities, and other appointments can become a source of stress and anxiety for both the child and the mother. In severe cases, car sickness can even limit a child’s ability to participate in certain activities and events.
How to prevent car sickness in children
There are a few remedies that you can try to prevent – or at least reduce – car sickness in children, including:
- Encourage your child to look out the window at the passing scenery. This helps the brain process the movement of the car and reduce dizziness.
- Keep the car well-ventilated. Fresh air can help prevent nausea.
- Avoid heavy meals before a car trip. A full stomach can make car sickness worse.
- Give your child a small snack, such as crackers or ginger candy, to help settle their stomach.
- Encourage your child to take deep breaths and relax. Stress can make car sickness worse.
- Keep a plastic bag or bucket in the car in case your child needs to vomit.
- Medications such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or scopolamine (Transderm-Scop) can be used for children who experience severe car sickness, but these should be used under the guidance of a paediatrician.
- Keep your child occupied during the trip with activities such as colouring books or electronic devices.
Natural remedies that can help prevent or reduce car sickness in children
- Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties that can help settle a child’s stomach. You can give your child ginger candy or ginger tea before a car trip.
- Peppermint: Peppermint has a calming and soothing effect on the stomach and can help reduce nausea. You can give your child peppermint candy or apply peppermint oil to their wrists.
- Acupressure: Applying pressure to the P6 acupressure point (located on the inside of the wrist) can help alleviate nausea and vomiting.
- Aromatherapy: Some essential oils, such as peppermint, ginger, and lavender, can help reduce nausea. You can diffuse these oils in the car or apply them to a tissue for your child to inhale.
It’s important to keep in mind that what works for one child may not work for another and that some remedies may have side effects, so it’s best to consult with a paediatrician before trying any new remedies.
If the problem persists and affects the daily routine and activities of the family, it’s best to consult with a paediatrician or an ear nose and throat specialist to rule out any underlying medical condition.
Car sickness can be a frustrating and disruptive issue for both children and parents, but by trying some of these remedies and consulting with a paediatrician, if necessary, you can help reduce the chances of your child experiencing car sickness during your next car trip.
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BabyYumYum Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Why Some Children Get Carsick & Motion Sick: Causes, Treatment & Prevention
What is motion sickness in children?
Motion sickness occurs when a child’s inner ear (which controls balance) senses movement that doesn’t match what their eyes see. This mismatch confuses the brain, leading to nausea, dizziness, and discomfort.
Why do some children get carsick more than others?
Some children have a more sensitive vestibular system (inner ear balance control), making them more prone to motion sickness. Factors like age, genetics, and inner ear development can play a role.
At what age is motion sickness most common?
Motion sickness is most common between the ages of 2 and 12, as a child’s balance system is still developing. Some children outgrow it, while others may continue to experience it into adulthood.
What are the symptoms of motion sickness in children?
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Pale skin or sweating
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Increased salivation or swallowing
- Loss of appetite
What causes motion sickness in the car?
- Looking at books, screens, or objects inside the car while moving
- Sitting in the backseat, where movement is more noticeable
- Lack of fresh air
- Sudden stops and turns
- Hunger or eating heavy meals before travel
How can I prevent motion sickness in my child?
- Seat them in the front or middle row, where motion is less intense
- Encourage looking out of the window at a fixed point
- Keep the car cool and well-ventilated
- Avoid reading, using tablets, or watching screens
- Give light snacks before travelling, but avoid greasy or heavy foods
- Plan frequent breaks for fresh air and movement
Are there any natural remedies for motion sickness?
Yes, some natural remedies may help, including:
- Ginger (ginger biscuits, ginger tea, or ginger sweets) – known to reduce nausea
- Peppermint tea or oil – can help settle the stomach
- Acupressure wristbands – designed to relieve motion sickness
- Deep breathing exercises to promote relaxation
Can medications help with motion sickness?
Yes, if motion sickness is severe, a doctor may recommend:
- Antihistamines (e.g., dimenhydrinate or diphenhydramine) – commonly used but may cause drowsiness
- Scopolamine patches (for older children, under medical advice)
Always consult a doctor before giving any medication to your child.
What should I do if my child gets carsick during a trip?
- Stop the car for fresh air and movement
- Encourage deep breaths and slow sips of water
- Give small, dry snacks like crackers
- Have a sick bag and extra clothing ready in case of vomiting
- Let them lie back and close their eyes to reduce sensory input
Will my child outgrow motion sickness?
Many children outgrow motion sickness by their teenage years as their brain adapts to motion and balance signals. However, some may continue to experience it into adulthood.
Where can I get further advice on motion sickness?
If motion sickness is severe and affecting travel plans, speak to your GP or paediatrician for personalised recommendations and possible treatments.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. If your child experiences severe or persistent motion sickness, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
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