10 Talents of Parenting: Playfulness

The Importance of Playfulness

By Lawrence J. Cohen, Ph.D.

For some people, parenting seems to come easily. They play, respond to children's needs, understand children's feelings and trust themselves. The rest of us need to work at it a bit more. But that's OK, we don't have to all be naturals. Each of us can develop those traits that will make us the parents we want to be. This article, focusing on playfulness, is the first of a 10-part series exploring how we can nurture The 10 Talents of Parenting.

Playfulness is fairly easy when things are going smoothly, when everyone is well-rested, relaxed, healthy, cooperative and not in a rush to get somewhere.

Playfulness is much harder when you're racing out the door and your child is dawdling over tying his shoes, when you are trying to get everyone to bed, when everyone is cranky or when siblings are screaming at each other and screaming at you. In other words, playfulness is hardest when we need it most. Fortunately, all parents can learn to be more playful, even at these tough times. It's a trait that can be nurtured, especially if you are willing to give up a little dignity.

Parents often tell me that they could never be as goofy as me. I'm not quite sure if this is a compliment or an insult. But, in fact, it has taken a lot of practice. If you have a hard time lightening up, you may need to practice too.

Try making silly faces at the next baby you see. With toddlers, fall down a lot, and make a lot of noise as you topple over. Preschoolers love when you put on a funny hat and play dress-up with them. Even if it feels like you don't know how to "make pretend," do it anyway (you can practice with stuffed animals while the kids are in school!).

Start a pillow fight with 5- or 6-year-olds, and then yell out, "Waaaah, pick on someone your own size!" Seven- and 8-year-olds always crack up when I tell them that I want to get married to Barbie™. Next time you want your preteens to clean up their rooms, don't nag at them; sing your request in a fake opera voice. It gets them every time.