Many people assume that carsickness is caused by rear-facing when it’s not true. Carsickness can occur regardless if they’re sitting in a forward-facing car seat or a rear-facing car seat.
Children between 2-10 years are most likely to suffer from carsickness. The most common cause of carsickness is mixed signals in the brain. Sight and balance come in conflict and cause the person to feel sick.
The first signs of carsickness are yawning, drowsiness and a loss of colour in the face. We have listed 6 things to do to avoid carsickness for children and at the same time can be 5 times safer in a rear-facing car seat.
1. Sleep
Nauseous can be reduced if your child is in a reclined position, relaxed and close their eyes. Sleeping is often a quick way to ease the symptoms as the child is less sensitive to the motion of the vehicle.
2. Take breaks
Take regular breaks, stretch your legs and your child can get some fresh air. That will help a lot.
3. Avoid big meals
Before and during the trip try to avoid eating any large meals. It is better to try to both eat and drink more often but in smaller quantities. Drink water and avoid fatty foods!
4. Temperature
Keep the vehicle cool! Remove bulky, warm items of clothing!
5. Drive safe and careful
Drive with consideration, acceleration, and heavy braking will make the symptoms of carsickness worse.
6. Don’t look down
If your child does suffer from carsickness, then reading a book or looking at an iPad will only make them feel worse. Look out the window and focus on items further away from the car, when your child is in a rear-facing car seat it is a good idea to install a mirror so they too can focus on the horizon ahead of the car.
Read more about child safety in the car:
Why Plus test is extremely hard to pass!
The reason why your child should travel rear-facing until 6 years old!
