How to Encourage Good Behavior in Children With Playfulness | Psychology Today

Parental playfulness is defined in research as “the degree of creativity and curiosity parents exhibit when interacting in play with their children.” In other words, it is how “fun” a parent is with their child both during playtime and during everyday tasks and routines. It can also involve using humor or jokes with your children and being joyful in your interactions with them. Playfulness is a “love language” of children—meaning it is an important way for us to connect with them and build our relationship. Playfulness can also be helpful during stressful times or power struggles with children. For example, when your child doesn’t want to leave the playground, you ask if they want a “horsey ride” to the car. So does playfulness really help? A recent study found that playfulness in parents was associated with fewer behavioral problems, a lower risk for anxiety and depression, and more kind behavior in children. Previous research also finds that parent playfulness is linked to improved e

Parental playfulness is defined in research as “the degree of creativity and curiosity parents exhibit when interacting in play with their children.” In other words, it is how “fun” a parent is with their child both during playtime and during everyday tasks and routines. It can also involve using humor or jokes with your children and being joyful in your interactions with them. Playfulness is a “love language” of children—meaning it is an important way for us to connect with them and build our relationship. Playfulness can also be helpful during stressful times or power struggles with children