One of the things that creates unity in the home is play. I am such a believer in the power of play and the benefits that come from such a simple and fun activity! In 2006 a group of researchers from Loma Linda University, investigated interaction between the “brain, behavior, and the immune system.” Paraphrasing – The researchers learned about two hormones, one which helps to alleviate depression and the other one helps with immunity. They both increased by 27% and 87% respectively with just the anticipation of watching a humorous video! Dr. Lee Berk explained, “Our findings lead us to believe that by seeking out positive experiences that make us laugh we can do a lot with our physiology to stay well.” 1  MORE ABOUT PLAY… While teaching parenting classes, I began each phase of the class with play, partly so the parents understood who and what I was about and more importantly, who they were and what they were about. In the first parenting class we began with a game which illustrated the nature of explosions. (Note title of the book) Imagine a group of people who come together for the first time for a parenting class. Typically, all were strangers. They were asked to step outside for a balloon toss, actually a water balloon launch. I asked for volunteers to try to catch the water balloons and usually a few brave souls would step forward, (often with some coaxing). I started out with a typical lob, then a far off one, causing them to run clear out. I would then shoot another close one which reeled them back in. By then, they were experiencing a little frustration. It took several launches before they decided to spread themselves out. Some shots were fast and hard, blasting them with water. Others were very high. It didn’t take long before they figured out that there was no way to prepare for the unexpected blasts of water. I began the class this way for two reasons. First, by the time we got back into the building, people were laughing, relaxed and more comfortable with each other, because of play. Right off the bat they started building friendships because the ice was already broken. It would now be easier to begin the learning process because of play. Secondly, I wanted to help them understand the concept of “explosions” and how they can come from every direction, when you least expect them. They are difficult to plan for, and it is hard to know the extent of the damage. If you put yourself right in the way, you will probably feel the blast all the more. A perfect description of explosions that occur in life!  Play, laughter and fun are important in our family relationships. Heavenly Father blessed us with natural “feel good” hormones that occur when we do the following things. Below are just a few … |
 | PLAY Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of children. |
Here is the tip for single parents...it will make your family life better for everyone!
1. P. 90 of Rebuilding After the Explosions: Helping Parents Put the Pieces Back Together
2 . P. 97 "
3 . P. 130 "
| If you have anything you would like me to address concerning parenting subjects or concerns, please let me know. Just leave me an email at https://www.shapingthechild.com We would love your help in building our PLAY SECTION! We would also appreciate submissions of funny stories, videos or picture. Together we can build a fun, safe area for your children to hang out! That is one of my goals! Thanks so much for your engagement and support! Jane E. |  |
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