Being sick can be tough, especially for kids who are used to running, playing, and being active. While rest is essential for recovery, keeping the boredom at bay is equally important. At The Kids Point, we understand how challenging it can be for parents to entertain their little ones while they recover. That’s why we’ve put together this list of fun and low-energy activities to help kids stay happy and engaged during sick days.
Create a Cozy Sick Day Zone
The first step to making a sick day more enjoyable is setting up a cozy spot to relax. Grab a favorite blanket, some fluffy pillows, and all the essentials: tissues, water, a snack, and maybe a stuffed animal or two. Having everything within reach means fewer trips out of bed or off the couch, making it easier to relax and recover.
Watch Comfort Movies or Shows
Sick days are perfect for catching up on comforting movies or shows. Choose lighthearted options that make you laugh or feel cozy. Classics like Toy Story, Frozen, or episodes of Bluey can help pass the time and keep your mood up. For older kids, consider family-friendly adventures like Harry Potter or funny sitcoms like The Middle.
Listen to Audiobooks or Podcasts
When your eyes are too tired to read or watch TV, listening to stories is a great alternative. Audiobooks like Harry Potter, Charlotte’s Web, or Diary of a Wimpy Kid are perfect for kids of all ages. There are also podcasts designed just for kids, such as Brains On! or Wow in the World, which combine fun and learning.
Make a Sick-Day Journal
Writing or drawing in a journal can be a creative and calming way to spend time. Kids can write about how they’re feeling, doodle pictures, or even create a short story about a brave hero battling “the sick-day blues.” Add stickers, colored pencils, or stamps to make the journal extra special.
Play with Quiet Toys
Low-energy toys are perfect for sick days. Here are some ideas:
- LEGO or Building Blocks: Create small, simple designs without overexerting yourself.
- Puzzles: Try a jigsaw puzzle that matches your energy level—whether it’s 24 pieces or 500!
- Magnetic Tiles: Build cool towers or geometric shapes while staying seated.
- Stuffed Animal Play: Create a mini “doctor’s office” where your stuffed animals take turns getting better.
Experiment with Easy Crafts
Crafting is a great way to pass the time without requiring too much energy. Here are some simple ideas:
- Sticker Collages: Use a sheet of paper and as many stickers as you like to make a colorful masterpiece.
- Bead Necklaces or Bracelets: String beads onto elastic cords to create fun accessories.
- Coloring Books: Choose a coloring book or print out free coloring pages to decorate with crayons or markers.
- Paper Snowflakes: Fold and cut paper to create snowflakes and hang them around your room.
Read Your Favorite Books
Grab a favorite book or discover a new one! If you’re feeling well enough to hold a book, dive into exciting adventures like Percy Jackson and the Olympians or laugh-out-loud stories like The Bad Guys. If reading feels like too much effort, have a parent or sibling read aloud to you.
Try Gentle Games on a Tablet
Playing games on a tablet or computer can help pass the time while keeping things relaxed. Puzzle games like Minecraft, drawing apps like Toca Boca, or educational games like ABC mouse are excellent choices for a low-energy day. Remember to keep screen time balanced with other activities!
Make a “Sick Day” Playlist
Music can be soothing and uplifting when you’re not feeling well. Create a playlist of favorite songs or calming instrumental music. Sing along if you’re up for it, or just let the melodies wash over you while you rest.
Build a Blanket Fort
If you’re feeling a little better and want something fun to do, gather some blankets, pillows, and chairs to build a fort. It can become your cozy hideout for the day where you can read, nap, or play quiet games.
Play “Guess the Object”
For a simple, low-energy game, gather a few household items and place them in a bag. Blindfold yourself (or close your eyes) and try to guess each object by touch alone. This game is fun to play with a sibling or parent!
Do a Simple Science Experiment
If you’re up for a little learning, try an easy science experiment:
- Color Mixing: Use food coloring and water to explore how colors blend.
- Homemade Slime: Mix glue, water, and borax (or a slime kit) for a sensory activity.
- Dancing Raisins: Add raisins to a glass of carbonated soda and watch them float up and down!
Enjoy Sensory Bins
For younger kids, sensory bins filled with rice, pasta, or kinetic sand can be very engaging. Add small toys or tools like scoops and cups for a fun, hands-on activity.
Try Gentle Yoga or Breathing Exercises
If your body feels stiff or achy, gentle yoga stretches or simple breathing exercises can help. Apps like Cosmic Kids Yoga guide children through fun, story-based yoga sessions. Deep breathing—like pretending to blow up a balloon or smelling a flower—can also be relaxing.
Create a “Dream Board”
Use magazines, paper, and glue to create a dream board full of things you’d like to do once you’re feeling better. Include places you want to visit, activities you’re excited to try, or things you love. It’s a great way to focus on the positive and look forward to brighter days.
Play “I Spy” from Your Spot
Even if you’re stuck in bed, you can play “I Spy” by looking around your room or out the window. This game is especially fun with siblings or parents and helps keep your mind sharp.
Have a Mini Spa Day
Relaxation can feel extra special with a few spa-like touches. Try:
- A warm washcloth over your face for relaxation.
- A light foot massage with lotion.
- Soaking your hands in warm water and then applying moisturizer.
Plan an Indoor Picnic
Turn lunchtime into an adventure by setting up an indoor picnic. Spread out a blanket on the floor, and enjoy your soup, crackers, or tea in a fun setting. Bring a stuffed animal or doll along as a guest!
Try Easy Baking or Food Prep
If you’re feeling up to it and have an adult’s help, make something simple in the kitchen. Decorate pre-made cookies, mix up a smoothie, or assemble a fruit salad. Cooking can be a creative way to keep busy and enjoy a tasty treat.
Relax with a Warm Bath
A warm bath can feel amazing when you’re under the weather. Add some bubbles or a bath toy to make it more fun. For older kids, try bath crayons or fizzy bath bombs for a little extra excitement.
Play “Shadow Puppets”
Turn off the lights, grab a flashlight, and make shadow puppets on the wall. Challenge yourself to create fun shapes like bunnies, dogs, or birds. This is a great activity for bedtime or a dark, rainy afternoon.
Create a “Sick Day Scrapbook”
Use paper, stickers, and markers to create a mini scrapbook about your sick day. Draw pictures, write about how you’re feeling, and include fun memories. You can even save it to look back on once you’re better.
Play Card Games or Board Games
Choose a simple card game like Go Fish or a board game like Candy Land that’s easy to play while sitting down. If you’re playing alone, try a solitaire game or a puzzle challenge.
Invent Your Own Story
Use your imagination to create a fun story. You can write it down, draw it out as a comic strip, or tell it aloud to a parent or sibling. Make it about an exciting adventure, a magical land, or even a sick-day superhero!
Rest and Recharge
Last but not least, remember that resting is the most important thing you can do when you’re sick. Take naps, close your eyes, and let your body heal. Even though resting might feel boring, it’s the best way to help you bounce back to feeling great again.
At The Kids Point, we believe that even sick days can be full of smiles and creativity. By offering a mix of restful and engaging activities, you can help your child recover while keeping their spirits high. Remember, the goal is to make them feel comfortable and cared for until they’re back to their energetic selves.
What are your go-to sick day activities for kids? Let us know—we’d love to hear your ideas!