How do I get my child to relax in the car?

by Ursula Gates
(Hampton, AR, USA)

Last night I was driving home when my four year old threw-up in the car.  I was on the highway going 55 miles per hour. My daughter who is nine years old went balistic.  She started screaming at the top of her lungs and trying to open the door.  Thank God for Child locks.  She was convinced that he was going to throw up on her.  Like he was doing it on purpose.  I have written here before about How to get my doctors to take me seriously.  So she does have a lot of Sensory issues, as previously discussed... I already know that. I was wondering if anyone had some advice on how to get her to relax in the car.  Just what to do with her.



Comments for How do I get my child to relax in the car?

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Apr 25, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Proud Parent
by: Anonymous

My son was having trouble relaxing on his bus ride to school. We have helped to alleviate this by having him listen to books on tape (he picks these out at the library himself); he wears headphones for this and that gives him a distraction from the noise, while following the book gives him the much needed visual distraction. For longer rides I would suggest a portable DVD player (with headphones) and allowing her to pick out some favorites movies. (I would still bring the books on tape in case she becomes bored.) Snacks, especially large lollipops help too...
Apr 25, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Relax in the car
by: Anonymous

I take some toys with me. CDs of music they like, games, stuffed animals and I do some car games. Picking and looking at the different cars that are around us.

Sing songs. I take some snacks and drinks. I have my son pack some toys that he wants to take with him; especially for long rides to grandma's a hour and half car ride.

Maybe some scents she likes. point to different trees or landmarks. See how many new things she can spot. Soothing sounds in the car, music, portable dvd player, portable cd player of music she likes. Dolls she likes, a blanket for comfort, to make it more pleasurable, also textured balls for massage she can have.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to The SPD Q & A.