Sick of being sick! - Activity suggestions for children with mono

The frustrations of mono

Mono can leave your child feeling unwell for months. Long periods away from school and out of their routine can contribute to them feeling bored and depressed. Although, a positive outlook can do a lot to help a sick child, the reality is more complex.

 
The symptoms of mono cause your child to have fevers, sore throat and fatigue amongst other things. On days where the symptoms are acute, your child is unlikely to want to play or be entertained. However, there may be days when you child is still too sick to be in school, but feeling well enough to be bored or frustrated.

 
Here are some ideas that you can use to distract your children from the frustrations of being unwell and in pain.

Crafts

You don't have to be an artist to enjoy craft activities. You can enjoy simple activities together, such as making cards or writing letters to family and friends. This will help your child feel less isolated from family and friends.

Scrap books are also a fun activity. Your child can collect postcards, get well cards and objects of importance and turn them into a scrap book, which can help to create a positive memory of this time at home.

In general, you don't have to spend a lot of money on craft activities. With a little creativity, you can collect things you no longer need from around the house and turn them into environmentally-friendly art supplies.
 

Cooking

Kids with mono may find that they lose their appetite, especially when their throat is sore. One way of encouraging your child to eat is to involve them in the activity of cooking and menu planning. By making it fun, it may encourage their interest in food. This is particularly important for kids who have been sick for a while and whose immune systems need boosting.

You can apply the concept of the five food groups and the need for vitamins and minerals in a practical activity in the kitchen. Succeeding in cooking projects can also give children a confidence boost.

Learning/Games

Many children with recurring mono will miss a lot of days at school. Your child may be anxious about the missed work or lack motivation and energy to do the homework. This is where online learning can provide an invaluable resource to your sick child. There is an enormous amount of study material available online that is presented through games and interaction and relevant to children of all ages. It's a fun way to learn and feel involved.
 

Conclusions

There are so many activities that you can do with your sick child at home. Even a child with a fever will enjoy simple games, such as playing with toys in the bathtub. With a little imagination, you can help your child to feel happier and keep him/her occupied until he/she is able to return to a normal routine.