When our boys were younger, I used a glass jar with pink construction paper hearts cut out in it; each heart had instructions of what to say to another person at the table as a way to express love. Last night, I decided to bring it back.
Games like this encourage vulnerable expression, build emotional vocabulary and intelligence, and increase positivity.
Even at 17 and 19, our boys can always use a positive boost and a chance to be courageously vulnerable…and awkward. Oh yes, they’re adorably awkward, LOL!!
We went around the table while we were enjoying our yummy meal, taking turns saying something to the other 3 people that expressed…
- A quality we loved about them
- Something we’re really grateful for that they do
- Something we admire in them
- An encouragement if there’s been a struggle
- Anything that’s outside of the day-to-day conversation
More love = more laughter
When the boys were little, we had a ‘no toilet talk at the table’ rule. If you don’t have boys, you may not realize how quickly conversations are reduced to three topics – poop, bums/balls, and penises. It starts around 7-8 years old and I’m still waiting for it to subside.
Sometimes, I’d like to set up a camera at our dinner table because honestly, the conversations that go on, well I just don’t think you’d believe them if I told you! Now our boys are young men, we make weird sounds and talk about the logistics of running or going downslide with horizontal butt cheeks. TOTALLY different, right?? Umm, watch this ⬇️
We need MORE silly!
We need more ridiculous, more humor, more silly, less appropriate, less things to do and more fun in our families! After starting my business over online last year and working almost seven days a week since then, our dinner hour conversations are often the comedic relief that I need before I head back to work for the evening.
We need more fun!
If I hear about this pandemic again, I think I might puke! I’m tired of ‘unprecedented times’. I’m tired of ‘protective measures’. I’m tired of being in my own 4 walls so much. I’m tired of it all.
Our family is following protocols in our area. Please, don’t assume my complaining means anything different.
What are you doing to find the fun?
It’s stressful for parents spending the days trying to be productive working from home and manage children/teens, then getting a meal on the table and spending more time together! It’s like Ground Hog Day, that NEVER ENDS!
Whether everyone shows one funny video/meme you saw today, brings a joke, or hosts a one-song dance party while clearing the table, be intentional about bringing fun and silly back. Your brains and bodies need some levity and happy hormones.
Join my FREE masterclass below my 3 pillars for creating an honest, connected relationship that lasts a lifetime, WITHOUT having to be a perfect parent.