Rediscovering Fun and Laughter: My Journey into Kidulting

By Cynthia Garrett, LMHC

Last December, I had a heart-to-heart conversation with my husband, and I confessed something that had been bothering me for a while: I wanted our upcoming year to be filled with more fun and laughter. It might seem like an odd thing to say, but I realized that somewhere along the winding path of adulthood, we had lost touch with the simple joys that once defined our lives.

The Weight of Adulthood

Adulting, as we all know, can be a relentless journey. Bills, work, and endless obligations tend to cast a shadow over the lightheartedness we once knew. We get so wrapped up in the responsibilities of being a grown-up that we forget how to let loose, laugh without inhibition, and savor the present moment.

Kidulting: A Fascinating Concept

That's where "kidulting" comes into play. It's a concept that's been gaining traction, and it resonates with me deeply. Kidulting encourages adults to reconnect with the child within, to explore activities that we might have deemed reserved for children. It's about revisiting the simple pleasures that brought us immense happiness during our youth.

The Importance of Kidulting

Kidulting isn't just a passing trend; it's a reminder of the significance of playfulness in our adult lives. Engaging in these activities can serve as a kind of therapy, relieving stress, sparking creativity, and reigniting that childlike sense of wonder that might have dimmed over the years.

My Personal Kidulting Adventures

Since embracing kidulting, my life has transformed in delightful ways. From spontaneous dance parties in our kitchen to playing “Marco Polo” in the pool, these experiences have breathed new life into our days.

Ready to Begin Your Kidulting Journey?

If you're feeling inspired and eager to inject more fun and laughter into your life, here are some personal recommendations to get you started:

  1. Rediscover Your Passions: Revisit the activities that once made your heart sing, whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, or crafting.
  2. Connect with Friends: Organize playdates with friends where you can indulge in playful, childlike activities together.
  3. Nostalgic Movie Nights: Host movie nights featuring your favorite childhood films, complete with comfy blankets and your favorite snacks.
  4. Nature Escapes: Immerse yourself in the great outdoors through hikes, picnics, or camping trips to reconnect with nature's beauty.
  5. Unleash Your Creativity: Engage in creative projects like art, DIY crafts, or journaling to reignite your imagination.
  6. Game On: Dust off those board games, card decks, or puzzles and invite friends and family for game nights filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Nurture Your Inner Child

In a world where we often take ourselves too seriously, kidulting is like a breath of fresh air in a stuffy room. So, why wait? Embrace your inner kidult today, and you'll find that laughter, joy, and a sprinkle of silliness are the best antidotes to the serious side of life. Remember, growing older is mandatory, but growing up? Well, that's entirely optional!