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Motion sickness happens because there is a disconnect between what the inner ear is sensing and what the eyes are seeing. It's also caused by the nerves in the limbs. Therefore, a child looking outside the car or plane will perceive movement, so they are less likely to get motion sick. Looking out the front window is best. Watching something in the car, such as a movie, or reading a book can make motion sickness worse. It increases the disconnect between the outside movement and your child's body not recognizing movement. Therefore, it's best to have your child skip these distractions if you know they have problems with motion sickness. In addition, avoid other situations that cause motion sickness. While you child can't avoid every instance of motion sickness, as being in the car is a primary cause, teach your child to avoid other places that may cause motion sickness. For instance, watching 3D movies can cause some people to be motion sick. Roller coasters and even swings or other playground equipment can also be a problem. Many people find that distractions can help with motion sickness. Try playing a game with your child when they're feeling sick or put on their favorite music, both of which can help them not feel as sick. Another good distraction is using soothing scents. Lavender or peppermint can be soothing, and it can give your child something else to think about besides feeling sick. In fact, some people are sensitive to bad smells when they're motion sick, so it can help cover up those. Chewing peppermint gum can also be a good distraction. Some people find that ginger helps, so try giving your child ginger candy to reduce the nausea. The distraction and the ginger can help with the motion sickness. Don't give candy or gum to kids under the age of 4 because it is a choking hazard. Don't let kids of any age suck on candies in a moving vehicle because sudden stops and starts may cause them to inhale and choke on the candy. Sips of clear liquids can help to calm your child's stomach. Water is best, but any clear liquid can help to settle their stomach. Some people also have good luck with fizzy drinks, such as lemon-lime soda or ginger ale. Of course, staying still can be difficult for any child. However, having your child try to not move their head and body can help with the symptoms of motion sickness. Try having them rest their head on a pillow as they look out the window. Crack a window to let some fresh air into the car. It can keep your child from getting overheated. Plus, the fresh air may help the child feel better. If it is too hot or cold, try taking the air off recirculate in your car, which may help some. If you're on a plane, open the air vents for circulation. Once your child starts to get motion sick, it can help to take a break. If you're in the car, stop for a little while so your child's body has time to adjust to not moving. Walking around or laying down with their eyes closed may help while you're stopped. If you're in a plane, encourage your child to walk up and down the aisles. You can also try putting a cool cloth over their head to ease the sickness.
Tell the child to look out the window. Make sure they aren't looking at books or movies. Help them learn to distract themselves with sound or games. Add soothing scents. Try having your kid suck on something. Offer clear liquids. Have your child stay as still as possible. Let in some fresh air. Take a break.