Theme for June: Fathers!
Verse:
Mom’s Musing:
When my kids were toddlers and preschoolers, my husband participated with them in impromptu WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) matches in the family room. This was, without question, my least favorite pastime but it was far and away the kids (especially my son’s) favorite activity.
I have found lots of moms hate this type of rough housing that seems to be built into every dad’s DNA.Often a fear that someone or something will break accompanies the objection to the rough and tumble interaction. Even though I totally relate to the discomfort- I recommend that moms stay out of it and let Dad and kids have at it. (Dads always smile at this advice.)
Little girls and boys alike enjoy rough play with dad but boys are particularly drawn to it. Sons love to match their mettle against Daddy’s muscles. Whether dad lets the child win or not isn’t an issue.
Developmentally, physically, emotionally, and socially wrestling (controlled wrestling..I just have to say that!) with Dad is a good. Look at what Richard Fletcher, the leader of the Fathers and Families Research Program at the University of Newcastle in Australia, told ABC News.
Set up a safe place and a good time (not after a meal or right before bed) for kid/Dad wrestling. Use a timer to indicate the beginning and ending time of the wrestling match. Wrestling doesn’t start until the timer says so. Once the timer rings a second time – the rough play needs to cease. This is one way to help develop self-control or behavior regulation in your child. If the fun turns mean-stop.