On Dad Jokes and Learning Levity

Every time we pass by a field of hay my husband gets the attention of our kids, points, and in a surprised tone says, “Hey???” as if someone just stole his last bite of dessert. We all roll our eyes. Every. Single. Time. 

His jokes could use some work but what he (and they) have taught me over time is that kids need lightness and levity – particularly from their parents – far more than the end of hard day’s work often allows.  

When we have to have a serious conversation with one of our kids I am ready, my talking points planned out, already heading into whatever private room the conversation will take place in. Then Greg will say,  “Let’s play pickleball or swim with them first, then we’ll talk.” 

And sure enough every time they are more relaxed, more open and everything is held a little lighter. It seems the conversation we as parents know needs to be had suddenly has the ability to breathe and it often then happens effortlessly, sometimes even during the play we’ve engaged in. 

I think I may have been born overthinking, well…everything. And when it comes to parenting (and running a business), I am so focused on what needs to be done or isn’t going right or how a goal gets achieved that I can so easily miss the forest for the trees. 

So I am trying to lighten up when I can and certainly at home, I’m learning that there will never be a shortage of lists and lessons and things we implore our kids to listen to. But some days maybe learning levity - and a few bad dad jokes along the way - is what they (and we), need above all else.