Engage in Active Play Together Regularly
Remember when you thought 'active play' meant a light jog or maybe yoga? Surprise! Now it’s a full-contact sport called 'parenthood,' featuring dance marathons, impromptu sprints after rogue scooters, and the kind of catch where you’re just as likely to catch a plastic dinosaur as a ball. If you’re ready to trade your dignity for giggles and maybe get your steps in, this one’s for you.
Active play boosts everyone’s mood (endorphins!), helps kids build coordination and social skills, and gives your brain a break from doomscrolling. For kids, it wires up those little brains for learning and self-control. For parents, it’s a natural stress reliever—plus, you get to see your kid’s weirdest dance moves and call it 'bonding.'
How to do it
Step 1: Pick an activity that doesn’t require a helmet for you (unless you’re into that).
Step 2: Set a regular time for your activity, such as after dinner or just before the bedtime routine begins.
Step 3: Let your child choose the game sometimes—even if it means pretending to be dinosaurs for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Keep things silly and short. Don’t worry about looking cool; the goal is to have fun together.
Step 5: When you’re finished, celebrate with a high-five, a hug, or simply collapse on the couch together.
Tips:
- Consistency helps build anticipation and makes the activity a special routine.
- Follow your child’s lead to encourage creativity and connection.
- Focus on fun, not perfection—your enthusiasm matters more than your skills.
- Short sessions are fine; quality time beats quantity.
