I know there are all sorts of things that make for a strong, bonded family—but I truly believe that if you can find a way to have a laugh together every day, everyone will be healthier, happier, and you will feel more connected as a family. I know that there are huge families out there where it is difficult to get everyone in the same room at the same time, let alone share a laugh—but maybe if you can break it into groups, or make it a goal as a parent to share some humor with each child daily, you will feel the better for it.
I am not talking about teasing or poking fun or having a laugh at a family member’s expense—I am talking about a SHARED laugh—noticing something funny that happens in real life, sharing a joke, watching a funny television program. Any sort of genuine laughter that gets those endorphin levels up can be bonding. At least that is my opinion. As I have been through trials and tribulations and the teenage years with my kids, I have found that if we can still find a way to laugh at something together on a regular basis, we do okay. Even if we have had the grumpiest of days if we can look back over things and find a chuckle, or even sit in front of one of our trusty comedic movies and crack a smile together—things just seem to go better and family feels like a healing place.
One of the great things about being a part of a family is that we often have shared senses of humor anyway—culturally we just seem to find many of the same things funny. Take advantage of that, as well as the fact that we can often be silly with our children and family members in ways we don’t feel comfortable being with the “general public”, and have a chuckle, daily—for the good of the order!
Also: Have Fun Together
Increase the Laughter in Your Lives
If You’re Happy and You Know It