Amazon Alexa reveals in new research that almost half of Australian parents and carers (47%) confess to have forgotten how to be silly under the weight of their multiple responsibilities.
To help parents find their funny bone, Amazon Alexa has launched ‘Alexa, Let’s Get Silly’ an experience to get the whole family laughing out loud, backed by parental educator Gen Muir.
One simple command to an Amazon echo device, ‘Alexa, Let’s Get Silly’ will enable parents to access four interactive experiences to strengthen family bonds, boosting kids’ moods and lowering stress for all.
Picture: Amazon Australia
‘Parenting today is tough,’ says Gen Muir, ‘From my experience as a parent, humour, laughter and being silly are among the most underrated parenting strategies’.
Mix102.3’s Hayley Pearson from Hayley & Max in the Morning agrees; ‘We’re all so crazy busy, but nothing beats dropping the adult hat and getting silly with your kids – that’s where the real magic (and belly laughs) happen’.
Playtime doesn’t need to feel like a chore, or a bore. Below, Muir shares her top five tips to help parents hone their funny bone:
- Embrace micro-moments
Having fun with your little one doesn’t need to be a grand production. Find small pockets of time, even just 10 minutes, to be silly.
- Integrate play into routine tasks
Who said chores can’t be fun? Turn boring around-the-house tasks into games; dance while you’re getting ready, or time trial doing the dishes – the possibilities are endless.
- Follow your child’s lead
Your child’s interests are a great starting point; observe what makes your child giggle and join in. Is it a silly impression, a tickle to the tummy, or a stinky sound effect with Alexa’s Silly Farts?
- Lower the stakes
You don’t have to be the ‘perfect’ playful parent, in fact, sorry to break it to you… that person doesn’t exist. Imperfect silliness is often the most memorable to our children.
- Prioritise connection over perfection
Focus on connection during play rather than achieving a specific outcome or educational goal. Silliness is enough.
Learn more here.
