Whether you are trapped inside because of a snow day, a sick day or just trying to avoid being out in the cold, keeping your kids busy can help the day run more smoothly. You can make the most of the day, even if you didn’t plan ahead.

Last week, we had plans to go to a friend’s house for a play date. Naturally, my boys woke up sick that morning, with one a snotty mess and the other coughing. They were both fighting colds and it didn’t seem right to take them out if they were contagious.

We were all going to be stuck at home.

So how did I keep the kids busy—and keep my sanity—without resorting to television?

We started our day by making Star Wars pancakes. My little Star Wars fans love this kit, but we rarely have enough time on a weekday to make them. The pancake molds are easy to use. I just use regular pancake mix. But to a 5-year-old boy, there’s nothing better than food in the shape of Darth Vader or the Millennium Falcon. We also have the sandwich cutters, which are great for sandwiches and cookies too.

Since we had planned to be at a friend’s house, I didn’t have any activities planned, so I had to quickly come up with something fun, but, most importantly, using things we already had. Luckily, I found a website with some easy craft ideas—like painting icicles and making cupcake liner snowmen.

We also got a head start on making some Valentine's Day gifts. I found some wooden picture frames in the basement. We used a glue gun to attach beads, buttons and glitter to the edges of the frames. I’ll finish them up later by printing a picture of the boys—homemade Valentine’s that Grandma will love.

When we finished crafts, we broke out some toys. My kids love their toys, and they got a mountain of new ones on Christmas. But while they weren’t looking on Christmas morning, I snuck a few unopened games into our basement closet, exactly for days like these. They loved playing with them, and it passed a good chunk of time.

I admit, we also watched a movie and played Wii sports, but for the majority of the day, our TV was off and my kids were occupied, and not fighting. It ended up being a pretty good day.

Is it just the feeling that you can’t go anywhere that leaves you with cabin fever? I don’t know, but these days can be rough if I don’t keep them entertained.

Hopefully, some of these activities will help you through your next snow day.

What’s your favorite wintertime stuck-at-home activity? Tell us in the comments.