Keeping kids entertained: Things to do when sick

Ah, the dreaded sick day. It often strikes without warning, transforming lively kids into couch potatoes. But fear not! Being ill doesn't have to mean a day lost to mindless screen time. With a little creativity and some easy-to-prepare activities, sick days can become opportunities for gentle fun and cozy learning experiences.

Here's how to keep your kids entertained, engaged, and even educated, all while they're sick.

When should your kids stay home sick?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), kids should stay home if they show symptoms of contagious illnesses or have a fever, to prevent spreading illness to others. The CDC also recommends isolation for children diagnosed with certain infectious conditions, to curb the transmission among peers and adults alike. This guidance is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment in schools and at home.

For detailed information on when and how long kids should stay home or be isolated, parents can refer to the CDC's guidelines on managing sickness.

Gentle activities for kids on sick days

Read together

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Nothing beats the classic activity of reading together. Whether it's their favorite storybook or a new adventure, reading can be both a comforting and engaging activity for sick kids.

Craft time

Simple, mess-free crafts can keep kids entertained without requiring too much energy. Think coloring books, sticker books, or assembling puzzles.

Movie marathon

A sick day can be a good excuse for a movie marathon. Let your child pick their favorite films or explore new ones together.

Listen to audiobooks or podcasts

For kids who might be too tired to read or watch TV, listening to audiobooks or child-friendly podcasts can be a wonderful alternative.

Play conversation games

Sick days can be a great opportunity to have meaningful conversations with your child. Try asking open-ended questions or playing games like "Would You Rather?" or "20 Questions."

Make homemade soup or smoothies

Not only are these foods nourishing for sick children, but they can also be fun and easy to make together. Let your child choose their favorite ingredients and help with the preparation.

Set up a cozy fort or tent

Transform your living room into a cozy fort or tent using blankets, pillows, and furniture. This can be a fun place for sick children to relax, read, or play quietly.

These are just some ideas to get you started. Rest and recovery are always the most important when someone is sick. But if your child is getting restless, choose activities that are low-energy and can be done while they’re resting. With a little creativity and some fun activities, sick days can also become special bonding moments with your child.

FAQ about things to do when sick

Q: What activities are best for a child with a fever?

A: Rest is the most important thing with a fever. But if your child has a burst of energy in between rest breaks, opt for low-energy activities like reading, listening to stories, or watching movies.

Q: How can I keep my sick child hydrated?

A: Offer plenty of fluids, like water, broth, or electrolyte solutions. You can even make it fun with colorful straws or special cups.

Q: Can my child play video games while sick?

A: In moderation, video games can be a distraction, but ensure they also take breaks to rest their eyes and mind.

Q: Should I let my sick child spend time outside?

A: Fresh air can be beneficial, but keep activities gentle and short. If they feel well enough, sometimes just sitting in the sun or a very short, relaxed walk can help. 

Q: How can I make sure my child doesn't fall behind in school?

A: Coordinate with your child’s teacher for assignments that can be done at home, focusing on lighter educational activities.

By incorporating some of these creative and gentle activities, you can transform a day of sniffles into a treasure trove of comfort, learning, and fun. Keep these tips in your back pocket, and you'll be ready to turn the next "achoo" into a heartwarming "aha" moment!

Want more tips and tricks to make parenting a breeze? Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.