Kimmy,
When I was traveling with my hyperactive son, the doctor gave me a prescription for phenargen to knock him out on the transatlantic plane ride--so yes it has this effect.

I can't help otherwise except to suggest other non-med interventions: such as good old chamomile or "sleepytime" tea (it really helps me a lot); relaxation tapes from www.healthjourneys.com (they have loads for both general anxiety and specific medical conditions).

Good luck and Happy Mother's Day!