We recently went to see “Finding Neverland” at the Overture Center, and not only was it amazing, but it really hit home the idea of lost childhood. It made me think of how we are happy as adults, and where that happiness comes from. One thing that my partner and I have realized is that we are both kids at heart. We love to goof around, play, go on rides, and all the things that kids love to do. I feel like this has served us well as we ventured in to having a family of our own. I can’t imagine not riding roller coasters with my kids, or building sand mermaids when we are at the beach, but I definitely realize that this is not the case for all parents. There are many out there that either a) have lost that playful spirit b) think that as an adult that is not how we should behave or c) just were never that playful to begin with. I would encourage all parents to stretch themselves and see if there is at least one way or avenue that they can incorporate some playfulness into their relationships with their kids.
Now I am definitely not saying you have to play with them all the time. Heck no. There is so much to be said for independent play. I would start with just a few small ways to bring your playfulness back. It could be as easy as a joke book from the library. Share them in the car on a longer drive, or while you are waiting for a doctor’s appointment, or even as you are finishing up a meal together. A sense of humor can bring out the silliness in all of us. You could also start with playing games with your kids. There are SO many amazing board games that are out there that work well for multi-aged levels. Try visiting one of the local game stores to get some good ideas. There are quite a few games out there that are cooperative games, which means that you all work together to achieve the same goal. That way either you all win, or you all lose, which works well with kids who struggle with winning/losing.
Vacationing is a great way to bring some fun into the occasion. For some, vacations bring stress, but try to change your mindset to one of fun and building memories. We not only love to take vacations, but we often look back at the pictures and retell our favorite memories, which always brings a smile to everyone’s faces. I would suggest taking vacations that work for your family- don’t go camping if that isn’t your thing. Don’t take a cruise if you hate boats. Find something that is the best fit. And when you do pick the best vacation, enjoy the moments. Crash in the waves (even if the water is a little cold) build the sand mermaids, eat LOTS of ice cream, and laugh. Spend the extra money to do something that is unique to that area. Buy a couple of the overpriced photos.
Take them to the things! There are so many local events that you can experience as a family, and kids really take interest in just about anything. The biggest thing to remember when doing this is to ENJOY the thing. So many times I see parents at events who either look like they are miserable, are stressed about things going perfectly, or are just completely checked out from whatever is going on around them. Will there be other people there? Probably. You might have to wait in lines (a good time to bust out the jokes). Will things be overpriced? Probably. But try to look past that at find the good. Or be choosy about which things you do and when. For example – try to go to Disney in the off season. The lines are totally manageable, and it usually is not as hot. You would be amazed at the things that we have attended that our kids still talk about.
Whatever you do, find some playfulness in your life. You will find yourself smiling more, relieving some stress in your life, and connecting with your kids on a different level.
