• Sick children always need lots of extra attention from you. Children love to cuddle up on the couch and have books read to them. Stock up on their favorite books from your local library or better still have some at home that you can grab straight away. If they've got a blanket or special stuffed toy now is the time to use it!
• If your child loves stories or music it can be a good idea to have some books and music on tape/CD. This way they can have something fun to listen to and you can hopefully get some house work done or have a break. They can often feel quite grown up if they can wear headphones as they listen and they can snuggle up in the comfort of their own bed while enjoying the story.
• It can be hard to keep some sick children quiet to get the rest they need when unwell. So it can be good to have several interesting DVD'S etc for them to watch only during these times. It's the novelty factor of something different that usually works here. However, some children have favorites and won't want anything else but the same one. You know what your child likes best. Its always a good idea to have some at home so you can avoid putting your sick child in the car to go to the Video store to get one! Believe me those trips can be quite difficult at the best of times. So plan ahead and always have some handy.
• Playdough can be a lovely, quiet activity that a sick child can enjoy. Try warming it up for a few short seconds in the microwave. Children find the warm feeling of playdough very relaxing and it makes the dough softer and easier to use.
• Put together a small tray ( use one from the kitchen) that has some blank paper on it and a few crayons so your child can sit up in bed and draw or rest on the couch and be creative to pass the time. Boredom is often the biggest challenge for a sick young child.
• A special container full of colorful stickers and a blank piece of paper is another easy and fun activity you can set up to entertain your child.
• It is also a great idea to have a doctors role playing medical bag available. Especially if your child has just visited your family doctor. You can take it in turns of role playing the doctors visit by taking each others' temperatures. Children love to do this and it also allows them to work through any concerns they may have about the doctor visit.
• Just remember that your sick child is going to be more clingy with you. They will want more and more of your attention. Give them the extra cuddles and attention they need. It can be tiring for you, but  know that being sick usually only lasts for a short time. By giving the extra love at this time your child will cope better with future illnesses.

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