Parenting can be a tough job, and many parents find themselves struggling to connect with their children. In the book “Playful Parenting” by Lawrence J. Cohen, parents are encouraged to use play as a means to connect with their children and build stronger relationships. By tapping into children’s natural sense of playfulness, parents can help their children feel more understood, valued, and loved.
Cohen, a clinical psychologist and author, suggests that play is not just a fun way to pass the time, but is actually a powerful tool for communication and emotional healing. Play allows children to express their emotions and explore their world in a safe and supportive environment, and can be used to build trust, reduce anxiety, and strengthen relationships.
In “Playful Parenting”, Cohen offers a range of practical techniques and strategies for parents to use when playing with their children. For example, he suggests “following the child’s lead”, which means letting the child take charge of the play and allowing them to guide the direction of the activity. This can help children feel more in control and empowered, and can also help parents to better understand their child’s interests and needs.
Cohen also emphasizes the importance of using humor and playfulness to diffuse difficult situations and reduce tension. By using humor and play, parents can help their children feel more relaxed and open to communication, which can be particularly helpful during times of stress or conflict.
Another key aspect of “Playful Parenting” is the idea of “special time”. This is a designated period of time that parents set aside to play with their child on a regular basis. During special time, parents are encouraged to give their child their undivided attention, and to focus solely on the child’s interests and needs. This can be a powerful way for parents to connect with their children and build strong, positive relationships.
Overall, “Playful Parenting” offers a fresh and engaging perspective on parenting, and provides practical tips and strategies for parents to use when playing with their children. By using play as a means to connect with their children, parents can help their children feel more understood, valued, and loved. As Cohen writes, “Playful parenting is a way of being with your child that is more than just fun and games. It’s a way of understanding who your child is and what he needs from you in order to feel safe, loved, and confident.” (Cohen, 2001)
Reference:
Cohen, L. J. (2001). Playful Parenting. Ballantine Books.
Additional sources that support the idea of playful parenting for promoting happiness and well-being in children:
These sources all emphasize the importance of play in promoting healthy child development and strengthening parent-child relationships. They also suggest that playful, responsive parenting is key to promoting positive outcomes for children, including improved social and emotional skills, better academic performance, and increased resilience.
In particular, Ginsburg (2007) highlights the importance of play for children living in poverty, who may have fewer opportunities for play and may be at higher risk for poor developmental outcomes. Similarly, Hughes (2012) emphasizes the importance of using playful, attachment-focused parenting strategies to support children’s emotional development and help them feel secure and loved.
Taken together, these sources provide further evidence for the benefits of playful parenting for promoting happiness and well-being in children and families.