Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
85% of parents are traveling with kids this holiday season. Their number one fear might surprise you.
Key Takeaways:
- A recent Mazda survey reveals that 85% of parents plan to travel with their kids during the holiday season.
- The biggest concern for these parents? Carsick children.
- Mazda partners with Dr. Mona Amin, a board-certified pediatrician, to help alleviate symptoms of carsickness.
The holiday season, synonymous with festive cheer and family gatherings, might not be all jingle bells and merry carols for traveling parents this year. As per a recent survey by Mazda North American Operations, an overwhelming 61% of parents are grappling with the dread of carsick children on their holiday road trips.
The issue of carsickness, especially in children, is a type of motion sickness that occurs when the brain gets conflicting signals from the inner ears, eyes, and muscles. If this sounds complex, imagine being a child confined to the back seat of a vehicle, unable to see out the window or distracted by a book or screen. This sensory mismatch can lead to an upset stomach, cold sweat, or, in worst-case scenarios, vomiting.
According to Mayo Clinic, children aged between 2 to 12 are particularly susceptible to carsickness, adding another layer of complexity to family travel plans. But with some practical strategies in place, this unsettling aspect of road trips can be effectively managed.
Dr. Mona Amin, a board-certified pediatrician, offers advice parallel to the Mayo Clinic’s recommendations to anxious parents. She not only suggests keeping the vehicle well-ventilated, but she also encourages kids to look out at the horizon instead of focusing on screens or books. These simple measures can significantly mitigate the discomforting symptoms of carsickness.
However, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. It’s vital for us, as parents, to adapt and try different strategies to ensure our little ones can travel comfortably.
This carsickness fear unveiled by Mazda’s survey is a stark reminder of the unseen issues families face while traveling. It’s commendable that automakers like Mazda are not just acknowledging this issue but taking strides to address it.
As we gear up for the holiday season, let’s hope that more companies follow suit, ensuring that our journey is as joyful as the destination.