Laughter is contagious, and now research shows that happiness is too—especially in your family. Happy parents have happier kids than the norm. What’s more: parents at the other extreme—negative, depressed, unhappy—often have children that act out, and have other behavior … Continue reading →

Practically all kids love to dance. It’s the earliest form of self-expression and creativity. Dance comes long before verbal expression and helps all humans—young and old alike—to find success in many areas of life, and especially in growing up. Listen … Continue reading →

Kids are natural-born helpers. They want to contribute to their family and they “love” to be called “helpers.” However—most of all—they like to be asked, not told. So, instead of saying, “Go get that,” or “Pick that up,” say, “Would … Continue reading →

Why do kids love magic so much? One reason is that magic can suspend their belief in their rational world. Instantly, magic can transport them to a “Magic World” where the impossible is suddenly possible. Kids also have very vivid … Continue reading →

Unstructured play can occur nearly anywhere. All it takes is kids, imagination, and some patience from the grownups. Kids at play are happiest when inventing their own games and re-inventing rules for old games. Free form play is a big … Continue reading →

Kira and Bill Van Ittersum believe that kids and music go together like hot dogs and buns. When the Van Ittersum grandkids start acting up and acting out, Grandma and Papa steer them toward their favorite tunes; because they know … Continue reading →

You can test this out, and you’re encouraged to do so, but Kira and Bill Van Ittersum think playing in tents is one of those really simple pleasures in life. They believe that nearly every child could and would enjoy … Continue reading →

“What’s that noise?” Wee ones come marching with instruments in hand—through the hallway, around the living room, into the dining room, on to the kitchen, around the island. Stomp! Stomp! Stomp to the beat! And, oh what a loud beat … Continue reading →

Listen in as Kira and Bill Van Ittersum talk about the “joy of allowing” as they explain how the project of decorating their Christmas tree truly became child’s play. Kids can do amazing things—as they demonstrated while sharing in this … Continue reading →

In this light and often zany podcast, Kira and Bill Van Ittersum are having fun! They’re sharing the experience of happiness however it is landing on them at the moment and encouraging you to do the same. All of our … Continue reading →