Embrace Your Unique Play Style (e.g., More Physical or Energetic) as Beneficial

Ever feel like your version of playtime is less 'tea party' and more 'WWE Smackdown: Living Room Edition'? Good news: that's not just okay, it's awesome! If you’ve ever wondered whether your high-energy, slightly chaotic play style is a parenting fail—surprise!—it might actually be your superpower. Let’s stop pretending we’re all Pinterest parents and celebrate the fact that sometimes, the best bonding happens when you’re both out of breath and someone’s wearing a lampshade.

Physical and energetic play helps kids develop coordination, confidence, and emotional regulation (because learning to lose at 'who can jump higher' is character-building, apparently). It also boosts dopamine and oxytocin for both of you, deepening your bond and making memories that stick. For parents, it’s a legit stress-buster—nothing like a round of indoor tag to shake off the workday grumps. Plus, kids learn resilience, flexible thinking, and social cues (like, 'maybe don’t tackle Dad when he’s holding hot coffee').

How to do it

  1. Clear a safe-ish space. Bonus points if you move the breakables out of the way to prevent accidents.

  2. Set a rough time limit. Even superheroes need a snack break, so plan for pauses.

  3. Let your child lead sometimes. Even if their version of "the floor is lava" involves actual lava-level chaos, following their ideas can make things more fun.

  4. Keep it silly and light. Remember, nobody wins every time—and that’s half the fun!

  5. Check in regularly. Is everyone still having fun? Great! If someone is crying, it’s time for a cuddle and a reset.

Key Tips:

  • Prioritize safety by removing fragile or hazardous items.
  • Flexibility is key—let the activity evolve based on your child's imagination.
  • Laughter and playfulness matter more than winning.
  • Take breaks as needed to keep energy and spirits up.
  • Be attentive to everyone’s mood and adjust as necessary.

When you walk into the living room after work or errands.

Drop to the floor and do a single silly move (like a bear crawl or gentle tumble) to invite your child to join.
Give your best superhero pose and say, 'We did it!'—bonus points if your kid joins in.
Designate a 'rough-and-tumble' play area by moving fragile stuff out of reach and tossing down a few pillows or blankets.

When you hear your child start to get restless or bored.

Play the anthem and do one dance move together.
High-five your child and let out your best victory cheer (even if the neighbors hear).
Pick a favorite energetic song and make it your official 'playtime anthem.'

When you notice your own energy dipping or need a quick break from 'adulting.'

Toss the ball gently to your child or put on the cape for a dramatic entrance.
Laugh out loud—yes, even at your own expense—and soak up your kid’s delighted reaction.
Keep a 'play prop' (like a foam ball or superhero cape) handy in the living room.