Strong funny bones
How developing a sense of humor benefits your child
We mustache you a question.
Do you think developing your child's sense of humor is important?
It is. Lettuce explain.
We've all been told laughter is the best medicine, but have we really considered the social, emotional and health benefits of humor?
Children with good sense of humor have been shown to be happier, more flexible and more liked by their peers.
They also tend to have a more positive frame of mind, higher self esteem and the ability to handle difficult or stressful situations well.
"It is never too early to start developing a sense of humor," said Christina York, Ph.D., a psychologist at Cook Children's. "All children will face very challenging circumstances, and humor may help them work through those sometimes-trying times of childhood."
Health benefits
Not only does laughter provide social and emotional benefits for your child, but a good sense of humor provides health benefits, including:
- Better pain management and toleration
- Improved digestion
- Increased illness resistance and immune function
- Less depression
- Lower blood pressure and heart rates
- Lower stress levels
Guide their humor
As a child explores new and funny things, always teach him or her what type of humor is acceptable for certain situations. If a joke is inappropriate, gently correct the child and provide alternate jokes or stories to tell instead.
Put a smile on our face by sharing funny stories about your children.
