Just in case you need some silliness pointers, here are some ideas to get the giggles coming.
Tickle monsters wanted
For the youngest children, tickling, bouncing, and blowing raspberries can be the easiest way to get the laughs coming. Some children don’t enjoy tickling, so respect that and try something else. Making funny faces while playing peek-a-boo is a great alternative.
Copy cats
Imitating your child is a great way to be silly together. If your child babbles, babble back and add a smile. If your child likes to imitate you, add some physical comedy: fall gently on your bottom, drop something, blink your eyes really fast, pretend to burp, etc.
Being wrong is hilarious
Older kids love to show what they know, so it’s always fun to pretend to get something wrong. Try putting your shoe on your hand, walk backwards, use the wrong name for someone they know,
Knock, Knock
As kids get older, most love jokes. Understanding humor requires a lot of knowledges, so getting a laugh with formal jokes is a big deal. Knock, knock jokes are one of the easiest ways to start with structured jokes.
Humor and social emotional skills
Joking around can be fun, but sometimes it can be hurtful. If your child is inappropriate, stop them. Discuss why you stopped them and how feelings can be hurt when things go too far.
Adapted from Scholastic.
