In the busyness that fills our days it can be easy to underestimate the power of simple things. We spend a great deal of time and energy focused on our children’s health, education, extracurricular activities and social development. But it’s important not to skip over the lighter side of life. Fostering a spirit of happiness, fun, humor and lightheartedness is the secret to a joyful heart and happy family life.

• Biblical and biological: God is the author of joy! Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “A joyful heart is the health of the body.” And the psalmist proclaims: “Then our mouths were filled with laughter; our tongues sang for joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord had done great things for them.’” (126:2) Laughter relieves stress, it releases hormones that help us process difficult things and it builds resilience. It serves as an antidote to the effects of grief and worry; simply put, laughter is good for the body and the soul.

• It brings balance: Although stressful situations and disappointment occur often in a child’s life, as parents, it is our job to not let the down times consume our children and rob them of their joy. Laughter, humor and fun were created by the Father, who loves to lift and restore our weary souls when things are hard. The joy in our souls comes from the Lord, and it blooms when we do things that make us laugh and find humor in our days. 

• An antidote to worry: When we encourage our kids to laugh at their mistakes and the crazy things that happen out of their control, it helps them learn not to take themselves too seriously. Humor and fun can help break down the walls of worry and discourage getting stuck in the “yuck” of a bad day.

• Weave in the fun: Laughter and lighthearted fun need to be a part of the daily rhythm of family life. There is nothing like the sound of laughter to lift the spirit. Seeking the silly is a great mission. Make time for games, contests and fun. Ask silly questions, watch funny movies, have a “you can’t make me smile” contest and spend time doing things you enjoy together no matter how packed the schedule becomes.

Dinner or family prayer time is the perfect opportunity to share something fun or funny that happened that day. This can shape a conversation and turn eyes to something uplifting, plus it’s a great opportunity to focus on the ways God sprinkles joy into our days.