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We are living in an intense time and play may not be top-of-mind mosy days. But play is so important in childhood and parenting! Join Sissy Goff, David Thomas, and Melissa Trevathan this week as they share research, ideas, and encouragement for being a more playful parent.

Connect with Sissy, David, and Melissa at raisingboysandgirls.com

Connect with Minno at podcast.gominno.com

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Quotes, Questions, and Helpful Information

We are living in such an intense time and intensity can choke out playfulness.

Structure play and planned playtime means we plan it for the kids we love rather than engaging in play ourselves.

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It’s important to experience the joy of playing with your children, rather than just creating it for them. Melissa Trevathan

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Play doesn’t come naturally for many parents. Figure out what play looks like for your family.

Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that kids at an early age interact and engage with the world around them. (from the American Academy of Pediatrics)

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Play enhances social skills, confidence, and resilience. Insufficient playtime has been linked to depression, anxiety, inattention, and behavior problems. (from a University of Maryland study)

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Play is the language of kids.

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Kids need to play. And they need to play with us.

Laughter and play strengthen your bond.

Play with your kids helps resolve conflict and bolsters the mood of everyone involved.

Play creates more oxytocin, the nurturing hormones.

 

What blocks play?

 Play can be difficult for more structured people.

 Ask: What about me makes it hard to engage in play?

What can play look like in the life of your family this week?

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It’s never too late.

Look at your own stuff.

Enjoy your kids.

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Girls that are delighted in feel more delightful. Sissy Goff

 

What we communicate to our kids about who they are is what they believe God sees in them too. Sissy Goff

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Intentional Practices:

1. Have regular family game nights.

2. Embrace impromptu dance parties.

3. Think about your favorite childhood play memories.

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Anchoring Truth with Melissa Trevathan:

If you’re going to be playful, you have to be open to looking like a fool.

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Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Psalm 34:8 (NIV)

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Then they settled down for a long leisurely visit with the disciples. from Acts 14:27-28

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