Children need to play, especially when hospitalized. The hospital might have a recreation therapy or child life department that has toys, books, dolls, and crafts, and is staffed by specialists who really know how to play with children. These staff members may also provide therapeutic activities, such as medical play with dolls, which helps children express fears or concerns about what is happening to them.

The fun-filled activities and smiling staff people in the recreation therapy rooms are a cheerful change from lying in a hospital bed. If your child needs to stay in bed or is too ill to go to the play area, you can arrange for a child life specialist to bring a bundle of toys, games, and books to the room. Music therapists might also come by the room to visit. This can give you time to go out to eat or take a walk.

Exercise is important, too. For kids strong enough to walk, exploring the hospital can be fun. Even if your child can’t walk, you can wheel her around in a wheelchair, pull her in a wagon, or push the IV pole down the hall with her standing on the base of it. (This is also a great workout for you.) You can also:

• Plan a daily excursion to the gift shop or the cafeteria

• Go outside and walk the perimeter of the hospital if weather and the neighborhood permit

• Climb the stairs to the roof to feel the sun on your face