From the Coach’s Chair: Maybe We All Need to Act a Little More Like Kids
Here’s What Brought Me to the Chair Today
Last night, we grabbed some sandwiches and headed to a local park for a picnic dinner. Not long after we arrived, we noticed a parent who stood out — and not in a bad way. They were running, jumping, and flipping off the playground equipment. Literally doing backflips and having what looked like the time of their life.
Naturally, Garon (our five-year-old) was drawn right to them. He introduced himself and quickly learned they were pretending to be Pokémon — and they invited him to join.
Garon had an absolute blast running around, watching this adult pull off flips like it was nothing. Meanwhile, Dan and I stood by — part impressed, part slightly concerned about how quickly Garon connected with this stranger. But honestly? The more we watched, the more we realized… maybe we’re the weird ones for thinking this was unusual.
Maybe we could all use a little more childlike play in our lives — especially with our kids.
Being an Adult Kinda Sucks Sometimes
Let’s be real — adulthood doesn’t always live up to the hype. Sure, we can drink, gamble, or stay up all night watching TV… but it’s not exactly magical.
At some point, we trade in that childlike wonder for bills, stress, and “acting our age.” Why?
Why do we stop seeing the world as a playground?
Remember when we’d spend hours outside and only come home when the streetlights came on? What if we could reignite just a spark of that wonder — enough to really play with our kids and experience the joy that comes from just beingtogether?
Take a Minute… Think About It
When was the last time you thought about what you actually loved doing as a kid?
Yes — I know some of us have childhoods we’d rather forget, but even in hard seasons, there are often little moments of joy worth remembering.
Here are a few journal prompts to help you reflect:
What was your favorite game or activity as a kid?
When did you feel the most free or joyful?
What silly thing did you love doing that made you laugh until you cried?
Was there something you loved doing with a parent or adult that made you feel special?
Now… Go Do It
I get it — society loves to remind us that we’re supposed to “be the parent, not their friend.” But here’s the thing: you can still play like a kid with your kids while being the parent they need.
So, look at your list. Pick one or two things you loved doing as a kid… and do them with your child this week.
Didn’t come up with anything? No problem. Here’s a list of simple, free ideas to get you started:
Play a game of freeze tag or hide and seek
Dust off your jump rope (and impress them with your old-school skills)
Teach them how to play kick the can or hopscotch
Build a fort in the living room
Have a sidewalk chalk art contest
Turn on some music and have a goofy dance-off
You’re Never Too Old to Play
Life is way too serious sometimes. And let’s be honest — it takes a toll on us.
So here’s your permission slip: you are never too old to play.
In fact, some would argue we get old because we stop playing.
(Seriously — check out the article on HelpGuide.org about the importance of play for adults if you need convincing!)
Share Your Thoughts
Did you try playing like a kid this week?
What did you do — and how did it feel?
Drop your experience in the comments below, or share your favorite playful activities with us! You might inspire another parent to shake off the serious and start having fun again.
XOXO,
Jessica
Out here playing a little more with my kids today — and loving it.