9 ways to entertain kids with chickenpox

Aside from itchy spots, one of the hardest things to deal with when chickenpox strikes is being stuck at home – but our arsenal of activities can help keep children occupied.

Have a change of scenery inside. Transform those familiar four walls by making a den or putting up a play tent. You could also make an obstacle course with sofa cushions, blankets, pillows and chairs.

Creative projects are a great distraction from itchy spots – from colouring in to cutting and sticking, painting or making your own play dough, there are loads of ideas to try. You could also make salt dough, then paint your creations the following day once baked.

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Play in the bath. Wet playtimes can provide a much needed change of scenery and allow you to make the most of itch-easing water. So get the bath toys out and enjoy some splashing fun.

Go into the garden. While going out in public is a no-no, there are ways to temporarily forget you’re on lockdown. If you have a garden, venturing outside (even if that means wellies and a raincoat) can burn off excess energy, while planting seeds, digging and gardening can keep children amused for hours. If you don’t have outside space, make a mini-garden inside using a small box, and add sticks, rocks, flowers or anything else you can find.

If your child has a friend who’s already had (and is therefore immune to) chickenpox, it’s usually safe for them to play together. Even if the four walls stay the same, a new playmate will provide a welcome break.

Get creative in the kitchen. Try baking, decorating biscuits or cooking a new recipe together. With the yummy results you can set up a picnic and even invite toys along.dough, there are loads of ideas to try.

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You can hide all sorts of things for children to find, and make it as tricky as you like. If your child can read, writing clues to follow can keep them engrossed for longer, while picture clues are great for younger children.

Draw on a cardboard box to create roads, which you can then add building blocks, toy animals and cars to, or try putting birdseed in a box ¬ then let children scoop, measure, and drive diggers and cars through it.

Once you’ve got them to use up some energy, settle down for an at-home cinema experience. With a good DVD, the lights off, and some tasty snacks, they might even forget they’re at home!

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