They say that laughter is the best medicine and this may actually be true in a lot of situations. Positive states such as laughter, may play into children’s overall level of resilience and their ability to cope with emotional problems. (Stanford medicine)
Laughter increases endorphins which eases anxiety and improves mood. Laughter also makes the immune system work better and amps up memory. That means that humor activates children’s brains in a positive way. And isn’t it always a treat to see your kids throw their heads back in laughter? Keep your kids laughing with these silly ideas.
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- Say Tongue Twisters.
How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
Remember saying this as a kid? Tongue twisters are not only fun (and funny) to say, but they help us articulate better, activate our brains, and help us become better speakers. Check out easy, short, and tricky tongue twisters for anyone in the family. I dare you to try not to laugh when saying these tongue twisters on repeat!
- Play a fun game together.
There are a large variety of new games out there to play as a family that will have you laughing for hours. The key here is to pick something low stress and fun for all ages. Suggestions include Uno, Charades, Pictionary, Heads Up, Minute to Win It, or any game your family enjoys. Better yet, go out and pick a new one together and have fun learning it at the same time.
- Read funny or joke-telling books.
A couple of weeks ago, we were having a rough time in our house. Everyone was tired and the weather outside was less than ideal. I pulled out a joke book at dinner time and we ended up laughing for well over an hour while taking turns telling one another jokes. It felt so good. Even my husband mentioned later in the evening how awesome that was for the morale in our house. Never underestimate the power of a few jokes!
- Watch funny movies or shows.
Make it a goal to spend family movie night watching something that will make the entire family laugh. My kids beg us to watch America’s Funniest Videos with them and it is always such a positive bonding experience for us as we laugh together. There is something about snuggling on the couch and laughing out loud that makes you feel connected to one another. And our kids have recognized this too!
- Remember to be silly.
Sometimes we lose the ‘fun’ in family life because of hectic schedules, work, school, and all the things we need to get done. Bring the fun back into the house by playing harmless pranks, having spontaneous dance parties, playing tag, having a pillow fight, and just lightening up in general! Life will be better and healthier for everyone in the house with a little more silly.
Continue to be intentional about making laughter happen in your house. Don’t forget to laugh along with your kids to also enjoy the positive health benefits that come along with laughing. Laughter truly is the best medicine!