Sometimes, as parents, we bend over backward to ensure we have happy kids. But the truth is, more often than not, it’s the little things that matter. It’s the time spent with our children that creates happy kids.
When we spend time together, whether playing a game, taking a trip to the park, or cooking together in the kitchen, we often feel happier! If you need an idea of something low-key and fun to do with your kid that promotes happiness, check out one of these fabulous suggestions for happy parents and happy kids!
WHIP UP SOME GARLIC BREAD:
Did you know garlic promotes the well-being of the heart and immune systems with antioxidant properties and helps maintain healthy blood circulation? Plus, it’s delicious on fresh-baked bread.
Add some lycopenes, the antioxidant and pigment that gives many red fruits and veggies their color, by having your kiddo dip in their favorite tomato sauce! So grab a baguette from your favorite bakery and whip up this fab recipe from Ambitious Kitchen.
SPEND TIME IN NATURE:
Spring and fall are the times people think to explore the outdoors! It’s neither too hot nor too cold. So, on those perfect weather days, grab your kiddos and their friends and GO OUTSIDE! Simply being in nature improves our mood. But when combined with physical activity and vitamin D, it’s a win-win situation that will make parents and kids happy!
But don’t let the cold weather of winter stop you from going out! If it’s cold, bundle up and brave the cold, even if just for a brief, brisk walk. And if the scorching summer heat has you staying indoors, get creative and cool down. Fill some water balloons or the hose to stay cool if it’s hot! Rainy day? Put on some boots and splash in the puddles! No matter the weather, you can find something fun to do outdoors.
CREATE ART:
Picture Books are fabulous art inspiration for kids because the illustrations are always amazing. So, use your child’s favorite picture book to create art together. You can use any art supplies around the house and let your imagination run wild!
When you are creative, it uses multiple parts of your brain, lighting it up like a Christmas tree! Creativity also uses the same logic as problem-solving, so you build cognitive connections in your and your child’s brains by being creative!
DANCE TOGETHER:
Dancing releases positive endorphins. And listening to music makes us feel happy and improves brain development.
In addition, musical concepts are related to mathematical thinking, so while you’re dancing and moving, your child is also gaining an understanding of counting, rhythm, and pitch!
Plus, when we dance, we express emotions and tend to be a little silly, making us laugh. And as you’ve probably heard, laughter is the best medicine! When we laugh and smile, our bodies and brains automatically feel better!
PRACTICE GRATITUDE TOGETHER:
Expressing what we are grateful for is scientifically proven to make us feel better. So, get your kid into the habit of expressing gratitude daily.
Something as simple as saying you’re grateful you had a hot dinner and a cozy bed is enough to get the gratitude ball rolling. Prompt journals designed specifically for kids or families are also available.
Updated November 3, 2023, by L. ELizabeth Forry
