Raising a child is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We all know that.
But is there a simple, daily mindset and approach to do the best we can to raise a happy child?
I think so.
Here are my thoughts on how to raise a happy child.
#1 Cultivate an inviting, happy space
What does this look like? Full of color, curiosity, and variety. Don’t go beige with all the toys. Kids need color! They need textures, shapes, noise and the simplest things (like Tupperware).
#2 Play… play… play
Get on their level. Sit with them on the floor while they learn how to put tokens in a kid-friendly rolling token game. Pretend their stuffed animals are talking to them and jumping around. Play hide and seek. The more you are ‘with them’ during the day and not standing or sitting 5-feet away, the better. A hands-on approach is best.
#3 Embrace the silly
Little ones love silly faces, watching you try out dance moves, and listening to music like Disney’s ‘Hot Dog’ song. It’s time for you to be a kid again!
#4 Let them help
As they start to grow up, walk, and run, they mimic us. They want to do what we do, so let them. Let them ‘help’ fold baby clothes. Let them put the lid on their snack cup. “No” is a very rare word in my house. It’s reserved solely for anything that could be dangerous to little ones.
#5 Lift them up and talk with them A LOT
“I’m proud of you for stacking blocks.”
“Yes, that is an airplane! Good job for pointing up into the sky.”
Happy kids become happy adults. I am a firm believer that happiness and confidence go hand-in-hand.
Have ongoing conversations with your little one. Talk to them (in the car, at grocery store, while you walk on a sidewalk together).
They are constantly feeding off their environment, their primary people and influences and the restrictions or freedoms you allow!
Let a child bring out your light, playful side. Celebrate first experiences with them. Let them learn. Let them thrive. Let them create.
Healthier Bodies is not just about what we put into our bodies. It’s about how we interact with one another, our mindset, and the happiness we can create in future generations.