Serious Taskmaster or Fun Playmate?

Who cannot use a little fun in their life every once in a while? Yes, you and your spouse are parents and that role comes with great responsibilities. It also comes with a lot of joy, excitement and a dose of unpredictability. Childhood should be fun – for both you and your child. Here is how you can lighten up and give your child the kind of childhood she will remember with a smile:

Enjoy your child

Your child is a blessing to enjoy, not a burden to shoulder. Be cheerful, smile and laugh often when you are around her.

Be adventurous

While setting routines is important for your child, routines may turn dull after a while. Break routine by going to new places or doing new things – the playground, the beach, the zoo or even have a picnic in your garden or on your home balcony.

Be positive

There is no correct or wrong way to play, so do not criticise your child when she does something you think is not “right”. Instead, be encouraging and generous with your praises.

Play with her

In the first three years of your child’s life, play with her as if you were her peer. Be silly, make faces, talk like a funny cartoon character or do a clumsy little dance. Doing this makes her feel like a worthy play partner and boosts her confidence.

Play with her buddies

Are children of your child’s age visiting your home? Instead of leaving them in a corner to play by themselves while you chat with the parents, why not join them for a few minutes? Play a little game with them or start a sing-along.

Through your child’s eyes

Children are curious and fascinated by every single thing – most of which we adults find ordinary. Look at the world through your child’s eyes when you are with her. Express enthusiasm at every little discovery she makes – whether it is the magical leaf that blew into your home or the wonders of an apple-shaped eraser.