Remember when summer weekends meant sleeping in and late leisurely brunches? Or perhaps hopping in the car for an adventure without packing a thing?!

Now we have our natural alarm clock waking us up at the first light of day with their constant refrain, “Will you play with me? “

As much as we love our kids, it’s hard not to groan at times. It’s a struggle to feel playful when you’re tired and your mind is already racing with the unending list of to-dos.

Last month I had the pleasure of being a guest on the CHCH morning show where I chatted with the incredible host, Tim Bolen and answered the question, “How can I play when I’m exhausted?”

Before I jump into my arsenal of games you can play while you lie down (seriously!) I have a couple of key points to make sure you get the most reward for your efforts!

1. Work mode vs. play mode

   Kids live in the play mode! That’s just how they are wired. But adults generally live in the work mode- we focus on outcomes. There is a natural mismatch here and it feels like we are speaking different languages. Give yourself permission to switch to play mode for even 10 minutes! Set a timer and forget the chores temporarily. (use my special time guide for more on this)

2. It’s all about the invitation

We want to give an enthusiastic ‘yes’ rather than an annoyed ‘fine’. When our kids have to pester us for our attention it doesn’t have the same impact. HOW we say it matters just as much as what we say.

Even better, ask your child to play first!
I love starting the day off with some 1:1 play time when possible. It sets a great tone for the day.

I have an ulterior motive here: when we give our children the quality attention they crave, through play, they are more likely to,

1. be more cooperative

2. whine/tantrum/meltdown less

3. play independently afterwards

Okay, now for some games!

Here are 3 games that can fill your child’s bucket while requiring minimal effort.

1. Scavenger Hunt: lie down, close your eyes and ask your child to bring you something blue. Have them put in on your hand (or on your bum for extra giggles) and then you guess what it is. Pro tip: the more terrible your guess, the more hilarious they will find it.

2. Don’t wake the dragon: lie on the floor with your eyes closed (you see the theme here) and place a treasure behind you. Have your kids try to sneak past you to steal the treasure. Grab at their ankles as they get close. Pro tip: these games which playfully scare our kids are especially cathartic and help them release frustration!

3. Log roll: lie on the floor and challenge your child to roll you over like a log. Pro tip: if your child is a mover, this a great ‘heavy work activity’ Save this for a rainy day!

Happy playing (and resting!)

-Heather

Watch the segment here (hey I’m on TV)

Download my Special Time Guide with Rough & Tumble Inspiration here