A Lesson Courtesy of Donald Duck 😃
Last week, I took a short break from work and social media while my kids were on vacation, and we were off enjoying some family time.
There was plenty of fun, plenty of chaos, and, at one point, a very enthusiastic encounter with Donald Duck — one that my son tolerated purely out of love for me 😄.
Somewhere in all of it, I was reminded of something we don’t talk about enough as adults: play feels good.
Not productive. Not efficient. Not “useful.”
Just good.
Play isn’t just for kids
We often think about play as something children need for creativity, emotional regulation, and social development — and that’s absolutely true.
But adults? We aren’t exactly designed to thrive on endless responsibility, schedules, and mental load either.
Stepping away from the usual routines — goofing around, laughing at something ridiculous, letting yourself be silly — can be surprisingly restorative. Moments of lightness and joy are regulating for your nervous system, just like they are for a child’s.
The adult play checklist (optional and very simple)
You don’t need a big plan or a weekend getaway to reap the benefits.
Even small doses of play can make a difference:
- A 5-minute dance party in the kitchen
- Silly faces or jokes with your kids (or alone — no audience required)
- Taking a different route on a walk and noticing funny or beautiful things
- A spontaneous joke, goofy dance, or playful challenge with someone else — just letting yourself be silly together.
Why I’m sharing this
I love helping parents understand their children’s emotions and build strong connections.
But the truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Allowing yourself moments of joy and play isn’t indulgent — it’s essential.
This little reminder from vacation (and Donald Duck) felt worth sharing. It’s a tiny nudge to let yourself play — not just for the kids, but for you too.
Try it this week:
Notice one small moment where you can lean into fun or silliness. See how it feels. Chances are, your nervous system will thank you — and your kids might get a bonus laugh too 😄.
When your child seems difficult or constantly in conflict, it can feel personal and overwhelming. This post shares a simple but powerful shift: seeing behavior as your child’s attempt to meet an unmet need. Learn how curiosity and connection can reduce tension and help restore a calmer, more collaborative relationship.
Learn how to repair after a rupture with your child and rebuild trust, connecting, and emotional safety using simple, compassionate parenting steps.
Worried your child can’t handle change? Discover why sensitive kids struggle with transitions—and what actually helps them grow more flexible.
Parenting a highly sensitive child who overreacts to small things? Learn what’s really going on beneath the meltdowns—and what actually helps you respond with confidence and calm.
Overwhelmed by your child’s behavior? Learn how small, manageable parenting shifts can help you get unstuck, reduce guilt, and build lasting change.
Feeling overwhelmed parenting a highly sensitive child? Learn why waiting to get support can keep you stuck—and how getting help now can bring more calm and connection.
When kids say hurtful things like “I hate you,” they may be expressing overwhelm, shame, or disappointment. Learn how to hear the feelings beneath hurtful, angry words.
Many parents worry about their child’s anger. Learn why anger can actually serve an important purpose for highly sensitive kids and what it may be telling you.
Is your child highly sensitive, have ADHD, or both? Learn how to understand big emotions, power struggles, and overwhelm, and discover a relational approach to support your child’s nervous system.
Feeling stuck in parenting challenges? See how noticing tiny moments of connection — or ‘glimmers’ — can transform your relationship with your child.
