How playing with your baby improves your day

In our busy, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. At some point between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing. Leisure time is regularly prioritised however ‘playtime’ is usually met with resistance because we don’t realise how important play really is.

Interestingly, new research by Nutella has found that a third of us (31%) have been spending more time with our family in the morning over the past few months. With this extra time, we’re having to entertain our babies more and subsequently play with them. Sometimes it can be hard if we’re working from home or running late, but what if I said that 20 minutes of playtime can not only benefit your baby, but yourself too. It has the ability to improve your mood and set you up for a more positive day.

Playing unlocks new and unexpected ways of being. It allows us to be spontaneous in a non-judgement setting and is the very essence of creativity and innovation. For adults, playing with your baby in the morning is a great way to start the day as it helps your mental wellbeing in several ways:

  • Playing with your baby releases feel good hormones such as oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin, which helps reduce stress, increase happiness and improve your mood.
  • It helps adults practice mindfulness by staying in the moment.
  • Starting the day with laughter and feeling calmer helps manage stressors when they crop up.
  • It can boost your creativity as it gets your mind working.
  • Increases the bond between yourself and your child by enhancing trust, reciprocity and building a more secure attachment for your child.

Nutella’s findings also unveiled that Aussies are feeling calmer (42%) and are more positive in the mornings (31%) as the majority of respondents said they had more time to themselves (48%) or were less rushed (43%). This is refreshing to hear as it’s obviously been a challenging time for all. Starting your morning on the right foot and adding playtime to your routine can go a long way in keeping you motivated for the day.

 

Authored by Sharon Draper, Psychologist and Director of The Conscious Project, who’s working with Nutella on the launch of their limited-edition Good Morning Vibes jars.

Inspired by the findings and changing morning attitudes, Nutella has released limited-edition jars to spread colour, positivity and ‘Good Morning Vibes’. The jars come in five colours to cater for every personality with a green ‘Family Hugs’ jar representing morning moments spent together with family.

X click to search
X