Games Kids Can Play While Recovering From Surgery

Any type of surgery your child requires is terrifying for you as a parent. It can also be scary for your kid, who doesn't know what to expect or how painful it might be. Let him help you collect games to play after the surgery so he has something familiar to look forward to. Knowing his favorite games are waiting can help comfort him. They also keep him safely occupied while he's recuperating.

  1. Board Games

    • Enjoyable board games exist for children of nearly any age. Young children might like games such as Candyland or Chutes and Ladders, while kids a little older can handle more complicated games such as Connect 4, Apples to Apples or Pictionary. Chess and checkers are other fun options. When seeking games that are more time-consuming to help the recuperation days fly by faster, look for games such as Monopoly or Life. Board games allow you and other family members to interact with your child, keeping her from feeling lonely and bored.

    Video Games

    • Some hospitals have recreation rooms specifically designed for kids recovering from surgery. These often include several types of video game consoles where the kids can play against each other or solo. A personal game-playing device is easy to transport to the hospital, allowing your child to enjoy video games in the comfort of his room. At home, he can play his video console while resting in bed or on the couch, or he can use the computer for a wider variety of instant game options.

    Doctor Games

    • Kids often are confused by the idea of surgery, from the actual procedure to limited activity during extended recovery times. Playing doctor games can help comfort your child after the surgery. The game Operation helps put a lighthearted spin on surgery, giving your child confidence she will fully recover. If she's still worried about her recovery, help her act out her fears with stuffed animals or dolls. Dress one like a doctor or nurse, and another like your child. Playact everything from the trip to the hospital to the surgery to the recovery; end with the child doll jumping, spinning and playing like normal.

    Puzzles

    • From jigsaws to crosswords, puzzles help you and your child pass the time as he recovers. Choose age-appropriate options that challenge your child without being too difficult -- he needs to enjoy the puzzles, not get frustrated with them. Young children might enjoy puzzles that help reinforce their counting skills, for example, while older kids might like Sudoku.

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