Sometimes it seems that the only thing parents and children share is DNA. As a parent, you have the opportunity to encourage your child by sharing more than that with them. In today's Share Your Heart Tuesday post, I want to talk about how to laugh with your kids and make memories both of you will cherish!
What Is Laughter?
Experts say that laughter is the best medicine in the world.
Did you know that laughter releases endorphins? Endorphins are released inside your body during exercise. They are feel-good substances in the brain that give you a feeling of wellbeing, or happiness. In essence, endorphins give a positive boost to your mood that all of us could use, especially kids.
In general, children are more prone to laugh than adults. Maybe because they have more to laugh about? Maybe because of their innocence and lack of adult responsibilities? Maybe because kids know that laughing makes them feel good and they want to feel that way all the time. . .
Whatever the reason, there is nothing wrong with laughter as long as it is not at someone else's expense.
Why Is Laughter Important?
1. It lightens the mood
It[s hard to frown or feel down when you laugh. It can make a hard day seem better when you take the time to let out a good chuckle.
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. – Proverbs 17:22
2. It gives you something in common with your child
Laughing at a funny cartoon, movie or television show together… laughing as you play tag or a table game… laughing at baby's antics as you fold laundry together even… All of this laughter and shared experiences brings you in contact with your child. It creates happy memories for both of you.
3. It changes your perspective and theirs
A good laugh can help you see things from a different perspective. For example, laughing at your own mistakes can lighten the mood and even make you more optimistic about life. Finding the humor in accidents (like spilled milk or a broken dish) can strengthen relationships, teaching your children how to see the good in even potentially bad or sad situations. Optimistic children are more likely to bounce back from setbacks.
Seeing the glass as half full will take you much farther in life.
4. It teaches kids to see the humorous side of problems
Kids can take themselves too seriously. Encourage them to see the humor in things. Make sure they understand that you are not laughing at them but trying to get them to laugh with you. The message this gives is that maybe the problem is not as serious as they had thought.
5. It's fun
Life has enough misery; add a bit of humor to it. Laughter is different from making fun of someone. When kids learn to laugh, they make themselves and others feel better. Look for ways to laugh with your kids and teach them to laugh and they will have happier memories, happier hearts and happier lives.
Lou Ann Keiser says
I totally agree, Katie. Laughter is important–IMPORTANT–to the happiness of every family. (Not bad in marriage, either.)
Katie Hornor says
Yes Lou Ann! in marriage too! Saving that for another post 🙂