Activities for Kids with Mono

You're taking care of your child's physical needs during his bout with mononucleosis, and provided him with interesting activities that won't wear him out. Still, it's important for you, the parent, to take time out of your busy schedule to spend quality time with your sick child. A parent's nearness is always reassuring and such comfort during time of illness can be a factor in the speed with which your child recovers from this debilitating virus.

Sit Quietly With Your Child
In the earliest stages of his illness, just sitting near your child can be enough to engender the feeling in him that you care about his wellbeing. Take some knitting or other handiwork into the child's bedroom with you. The click-clack of knitting needles or the sight of you wielding a needle and thread can be hypnotic and help lull your child into a more peaceful state.

Being near your child without focusing your sole attention on him as you knit or sew can make it easy for your child to express his fears. Ailing children are often anxious and need information about their illness. Concentrating on your handiwork instead of making eye contact with your child can help him escape the impression that you are very worried and relieve his doubts about the relevance of his various questions. If your child expresses an interest, teach him how to knit, embroider, or crochet.

If handiwork isn't your style, just read a book. Choose a classic such as Little Women, or Treasure Island, and offer to read it aloud to your child, a chapter at a time. The sound of your voice can be very soothing to a fretful child.

Board Games
When your child has a bit more energy and is starting to get antsy with boredom, it's fun to play Madlibs or checkers. A magnetic game board is a real boon to the parent with a sick child. Don't play a game that requires a great deal of strategy. Just aim for diversion and some fun.