How can I help my child deal with motion sickness? Learn what to do if that nauseating feeling hits. Stop by an AFC urgent care clinic near you in East, TN.

From Ober Mountain weekends to road trips across the country, summer is the season for traveling and adventure. But if your child starts feeling dizzy or queasy on the road, motion sickness can turn even the most exciting trip into a stressful one. 

At AFC Urgent Care, we want your family outings to be full of fun, not nausea. Motion sickness is common in kids, and while there’s no cure, there are simple ways to prevent it and manage symptoms if they strike mid-trip. 

Visit an AFC East Tennessee clinic today.  

Why Motion Sickness Happens in Kids 

Motion sickness isn’t something a child can control. It’s caused by a disconnect between the inner ear (which helps with balance) and what the eyes see. When those signals don’t match up like when you’re moving but looking at a still screen or book, the brain gets confused. The result? Dizziness, nausea, vomiting and that overall “blah” feeling no one wants on a road trip. 

Kids between ages 6 and 12 are especially sensitive to motion. If a parent has a history of motion sickness, there’s a 50% chance the child will, too. While most kids don’t outgrow it completely, symptoms often get milder with age. 

Common Signs in Children 

Motion sickness symptoms can vary depending on your child’s age: 

• Before age 6: Dizziness is often the most noticeable symptom 
• Ages 6–12: Nausea and vomiting are more likely 
• Teens: Headaches, cold sweats and persistent nausea become more common 

If your child seems uncomfortable on winding roads or mountain drives, even if they can’t explain how they feel, it could be motion sickness. 

What Makes Motion Sickness Worse 

Planning a summer trip to Gatlinburg or a Sunday drive through the mountains? Keep these common triggers in mind and try to avoid them when possible: 

• Heavy or greasy meals before the trip 
• Sweet or fizzy drinks that can upset the stomach 
• Strong food smells or perfume in enclosed spaces 
• Looking down to read or use a phone or tablet 
• Watching movement through side windows 
• Riding during poor weather or in hilly areas with lots of motion 

Instead, encourage your child to keep their eyes forward and focus on the horizon, it’s one of the simplest and most effective tricks. 

How to Prevent Motion Sickness  

With a few small adjustments, your child can feel much better on your next trip whether it’s somewhere in East Tennessee or visiting family a few hours away. 

• Choose the best seat: For younger kids, the middle back seat helps minimize motion and allows them to look forward. If your child is 12 or older and meets safety requirements, the front seat may help reduce symptoms. 
• Keep movement minimal: Encourage your child to sit upright and keep their head as still as possible. 
• Crack a window: Fresh air can help settle nausea. If windows are closed, turn the AC vents toward them. 
• Play relaxing music: Calm music or soothing sounds can ease tension and distract from discomfort. 
• Eat light: Offer a light snack before the trip, nothing too rich or greasy. 
• Avoid screens and books: Instead, try music, conversation or looking at scenery ahead. 

What to Pack for Peace of Mind 

Even with preparation, motion sickness can still sneak up on you. Be ready with: 

• Children’s Dramamine: Available at local pharmacies. It’s most effective when taken about an hour before travel. 
• Acupressure wristbands: A drug-free option that is more commonly used by adults, but could also be effective for children. 
• Fluids: Offer small sips of water or electrolyte drinks if your child starts feeling sick. 
• Cleanup supplies: Always have a sick bag, wipes and a spare outfit in the car, just in case. 

When to Stop In 

Most motion sickness symptoms fade once the ride ends. But if your child is still feeling sick long after you’ve stopped, or if it becomes a regular issue, stop by an AFC East Tennessee location. We’re open early mornings, evenings and everything in between, with walk-in visits available at all of our convenient locations. 

Whether you’re driving to the lake or running errands around town, we’re here for your children, so the whole family can enjoy the ride.