Watching the Super Bowl has become a tradition in our house, and if the Pats are playing, well, that's even better. But our three children aren't always so keen on our plans. The idea of sitting down for three hours and watching a bunch of men chase a ball and knock each other down doesn't hold too much appeal for them. And I'm sure we're not the only family in a similar situation this weekend. So I've put together some fun ideas for keeping kids engaged (and supervised) so everyone can enjoy the game.

1. Try to get them into the game.
Even if your kids have never wanted to watch football before, this might be the game that turns them into fans. Your passion and excitement will go a long way, particularly if you involve them and give them attention. Remember that football is a complicated sport, and if kids don't understand what they're seeing, they're sure to lose interest. Find a book to read to them that helps to explain it, or take some time to explain how football works using YouTube videos (this one is really good) before the actual game begins.

Give them some things to look for, like whether a team got a first down or not. Help them make predictions, like, will they punt or try for a field goal? Get them to count how many times the announcer says the word "yard" or "tackle." When things go well, give the kids high-fives. If they're focusing on the game and asking questions, tear yourself away from the screen to praise their interest and provide answers.

2. Get some good solitary games.
The old classic Rush Hour is great for older kids, as is a newer favorite, Logic Links. Smart Car is nice for younger kids, who love the blocks just as much as they love the puzzles. Perplexus is another challenging game that will keep kids occupied for hours. Trying to move the marble through the spherical obstacle course is harder than it looks. My kids are currently obsessed with Bop It! We don't sell it at Magic Beans, but it is addictive AND it has a headphone jack. Whatever you give them, they'll keep at it for longer if you take some time to acknowledge their accomplishments as they move through the levels.

3. Get crafty.
Some basic art supplies are a good bet - crayons and paper or a coloring book will be fine. If you're feeling ambitious, cut out some football-themed shapes (balls, helmets, goalposts, fields) in advance and then let the kids go to town. Or pick up acraft kit that takes some time, like Loop n' Loom or Sticky Mosaics, both of which are great for both girls and boys. If you don't mind a little mess and sugar, make the kids some chocolate clay. They can sculpt it into footballs!

4. Plan a movie night for the kids.
My kids are already campaigning for a little screen time of their own on Sunday night. If you have a second TV in the house, select a couple of age-appropriate films and queue them up. It's not quality play time, but if you're spending the night glued to the game, you're hardly in a position to do much about that. My kids all enjoy watching animated hits like Tangled, Shrek, Toy Story, and Up. An iPod or iPad is also a good silver bullet, if you have one to lend the kids.

5. Get a (young) babysitter.
If you're going to be home for the evening anyway, consider asking a local high school student to come and hang out with your kids. It shouldn't cost you too much (the going rate is $8-$12/hour, depending on where you live), and the kids will have someone fun to hang out with them and supervise activities. And put them to bed on time.