Taking your kid on a boat is a rite of passage. The sensation of gliding over the water is like nothing else, and most kids love the experience. Getting accustomed to the motion of the waves, however, is another question entirely. It can take your kids (and plenty of adults!) some time to get their sea legs. Fortunately, kid sea sickness remedies can help your little ones safely enjoy their voyage. Ranging from simple tips and tricks all the way to prescription medication, these solutions can keep your kid from turning greener than seaweed.
In order to remedy sea sickness, it helps to understand its causes. According to the National Health Service (NHS), motion sickness likely “occurs when there's a conflict between what your eyes see and what your inner ears, which help with balance, sense.” For instance, your eyes may process the forward momentum of the boat, but your inner ears can sense that you’re just sitting still. These crossed signals may trigger motion sickness. The NHS further notes that sea sickness is more common in children who are between the ages of three and 12, so don’t be surprised if your kids get nauseous while you feel fine. They will likely adapt with age and more travel experience. In the meantime, these remedies can help make their voyages a bit more pleasant.
1
Choose A Stable Seat
The stern may not be the best place to park your sea sick kid. According to the Mayo Clinic, sitting in the front or middle part of the ship near water level will probably help you feel the least amount of motion. Helping your kid feel as still and steady as possible is the idea.
2
Try A Snack
Dry crackers are a go-to snack to help ward off nausea. Additionally, WebMD noted that ginger may help ease motion sickness, so giving your kid a ginger ale or candies may be a good call. If nothing else, the snack may distract your little one from the nausea.
3
Wrist Bands
Acupressure bands may help relieve motion sickness, and they come in kid sizes. Although WebMD notes that little evidence supports their effectiveness, plenty of individuals love the things. So even if the nausea relief is just due to the placebo effect, the wrist bands may still help your kid out.
4
Look Away
Staring at a nearby tablet may only make your kid feel worse. As explained in the Association for Psychological Science, have your kid focus on a spot on the horizon (or even close her eyes). Looking at something stationary may help her feel more stable.
5
Breathe Deep
Deep breathing may help calm your child and ease his sea sickness. As suggested in ChildrensMD, you can encourage your child to breathe deeply by singing a song together. If nothing else, it will serve as a welcome distraction from the motion of the boat.
6
Keep A Still Head
Because motion sickness is rather literally "all in your head," it makes sense to care for that part of your body. As suggested by Dr. Weil on his site, have your kid keep his head still and lay it against a headrest if possible. It's an easy way to help him feel less woozy.
7
Consider Medication
If your kiddo is especially susceptible to sea sickness, you may consider using one of the many kid-friendly medications to treat it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, medications such as dimenhydrinate or diphenhydramine may be appropriate for your little one. When in doubt, have a chat with your doctor about potential prescription meds. Just remember that in time your kid will adapt and be able to enjoy a nautical journey without any signs of sea sickness.
