10 Ways to Make Your Sick Child More Comfortable

We've all been there.  Your child gets sick, and no matter how much you want to change that, you can't.  

We can make them more comfortable, at least.  Here are some of the things we're doing during our current bout of chicken pox to survive our week of quarantine in style

10.  Hold a pajamas day.  My kids cheered this morning when I announced that they could remain in their PJs all day.  We usually have somewhere to be at some point during the day, and so they have to get dressed.  Being in their PJs automatically makes them feel more relaxed.

9.  Take a bubble bath.  Your child's condition might mean a hot bath is best, or maybe a cool one could sooth a fever, but either way, being clean just makes everything better.  It never hurts to have some bubbles or some water playtime, either.

8.  Throw the family schedule out the window.  Your kids might be ready to eat or sleep at different times.  They might not be up for any schoolwork.  It's okay - it's not forever.

7.  Throw YOUR schedule out the window, too.  When my kids are sick, I always feel as if I must do double-time to take care of the sick person AND keep up with my usual chores, but in reality, the only really important thing is the person.  The dust or laundry can wait - chances are, it'll still be there when my child is well, but I only have this time to comfort them.

6.  Play a game.  Even though we spend most of our time at home, we don't get to play together as much as we'd like.  This is a great time to remedy that when the sick one is up for it!

5.  Make your own snow-cones.  Right now my kids have incredibly sore throats, and it's changing their appetites.  Since their tummies are steady, though, they can eat whatever they want.  This is a great time to crush some ice, add some juice, and let the cool juice sooth the pain.

4.  Break out that craft or project you've been putting off.  When My Big Helper got the flu a few months ago, the first thing that she wanted to do was a new mosaic project.    I wasn't sure she'd be able to handle being up yet, but she was determined to finish it.  When she played out, we'd set it aside and pick it up later.    You can do this same thing - if it's a big project that is wanted, try it out and set it aside as need be. 

3.  Go for some snuggle time.  One of my kids is a snuggler and the other isn't, but when they're sick, they both want to settle into my lap and stay there.  Set aside what you're doing and snuggle - it won't be long before they're back to normal, and they won't want any ,ore snuggle time.  Take advantage of it.

2.  Watch a special movie.  It might be an old favorite or one from the to-be-watched list, but spread out a blanket and grab the remote.  Movies, when chosen wisely, are great for escaping reality and making life feel fun.

1.  Read together.  Your kids might be able to read whatever they want, but they'll still appreciate snuggling close and listening to a favorite or new story.  

What would you add to this list??