As moms, we aren’t really allowed sick days but if you do come down with something, how are you supposed to keep your little ones from coloring on the walls for entertainment when all you want to do is make the couch your new best friend? 
I give you my 9 kid-tested, tried and true methods for entertaining your toddler when mom needs a sick day.
In the midst of all the Christmas cheer, the lights, the food, and the shopping, Mother Nature gives us cold and flu season (and holiday party season with an annual hangover).
Moms Sick Day tip #1: movie day with no shame
I know we need to limit our kids screen time, but honestly one full day of TV and movies is not going to turn their brains into mashed potatoes. Have them pick the movies and the snacks and make it a lazy day! Or even just a lazy hour so you can get a short nap!
Moms Sick Day tip #2: coloring contest
I recently let my kids go nuts in the coloring aisle a Target and pick out new coloring books, crayons, markers and tracing books. They have been coloring fools all week while I have been down and out! Bonus- my fridge is full of beautiful new art work!
Moms Sick Day tip #3: playdoh
Even when you are feeling under the weather, sitting and making a snake or a ball will be easy for you. There is no running around or screaming and everyone is playing quietly while using their imaginations.
Moms Sick Day tip #4: just add water
I love throwing my kids in the tub with some bath tub paint, sponges and cups. They could spend two hours splashing around if I let them and you get to lie quietly on the cold bathroom floor.
Moms Sick Day tip #4: Pictionary
We have an art easel that we love to use for games. Even my two year old will scribble circles and ask me to guess what he drew. It’s a nice quiet game that again engages their imaginations while you lay down and guess what beautiful masterpiece they are creating.
Moms Sick Day tip #5: wrap presents
Dollar store wrapping paper + safety scissors + tape= a kid’s dream! Let them wrap up some of their toys for you and watch them light up as you unwrap their amazing gift! Tis the season for giving.
Moms Sick Day tip #6: books
Have your kids grab a stack of their favorite books and take turns reading to each other. It’s a nice and quiet activity where you can bond over a good book.
Moms Sick Day tip #7: board games
Bust out Candyland, Chutes and Ladder and Memory and lay on the floor together. My kids always beat me and I swear I never let them win!
Moms Sick Day tip #8: puzzles
Another nice quiet activity that will keep them occupied for at least five minutes. At the same time, they are strengthening fine motor skills, and spatial and logical reasoning.
Moms Sick Day tip #9: Legos and blocks
Build a whole city of blocks and play cars or dolls. This is an easy activity that doesn’t require a ton of effort from you but they can get as crazy as they want. Same thing with Legos; they can focus quietly on what they are making and you can help or make your own design.
I hope you all stay extra healthy this year.
But in case you do catch a bug, I hope this helps you and your kids keep your sanity while you are busy getting better.
Enjoy your Holidays! What is your favorite activity to keep your kids busy while you are under the weather?
