Things to Do When You Feel Like Poop & Your Kids Are Acting Like Turds.

Let's be real. Sometimes my kids can be little shits whose goal becomes sucking life out of me when I am already down and out for the day. Of course, we can hand over the remote to the TV, but even that only goes so far.

I have days when it physically hurts to breathe. My shoulder and back become so flared up that every inhale is a reminder of this wicked disease. And, usually, it seems those are the days my kids need me the most.

So, it's time to get creative.

1. Movie Time

I know TV is not the only answer, but have the kids pick out their own outfits & grab stuffed animals or dolls to go on theme with the movie. And, pop some popcorn. For whatever reason, those two things will keep them a bit more focused during the movie and it adds an extra 10-30 minutes while they "prep".

2. Dance or Yoga Lessons

Again, this is using TV in an intentional way. And not just handing the kids the remote. Youtube has different lessons that keeps the kids active and entertained. Get ready with "nice moves" commentary throughout, while you can rest in bed or on the couch. My favorite youtube videos are Cosmic Kids Yoga: https://youtu.be/iWowDC3x0hE

3. Important Sorting

Depending the age, there are a variety of ways to do this. For example a new package of construction paper comes collated with colors in a rainbow pattern and have the kids sort it by color. They can put all the reds together, all the blues together and so on. And then next time have them put back in rainbow order. Or kids can sort pictures by person (I know you have a stack of pictures somewhere). Older kids can sort books on a shelf or recipes in a box. Make sure you tell them that it is imperative this is done and you absolutely need it this way so they are helping so much.

4. Card Games

Using a tv tray in bed, I can usually muster up enough energy to sit for a couple games of "Go Fish" or one round of "War". Sometimes, the kids get bored playing the same old games, so we read the numbers in Spanish or reverse the rules. I try anything to mix it up without needing to get up for a new game or deck of cards.

5. Puzzles

I have these at the ready. Sometimes my fine motor skills are a bust, so The kids put the pieces together for me as I direct. It is helpful to have an assortment of puzzles. I get some at Dollar Tree for super cheap. Pro tip: we have a large draft board we do them on, so if I can't finish or need to move from the couch to the bed, we can keep working.

The case and point of all of this is to get creative & have the supplies ready and accessible. Lord knows I won't get up to look for something to do when I feel like this - preparation is key!

If you have found yourself reading this for help, I'm sorry. And I hope you are feeling better soon. If you are a loved one of someone in this position, it would be such an easy gesture to help prep for the patient!

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