There’s nothing better than seeing your child burst into a big, silly laugh. Laughter isn’t just good for the soul—it boosts the immune system, strengthens the lungs and heart, and even helps us parents tone our abs (because let’s be honest, post-baby core strength could use all the help it can get!).
Here are 10 easy, low-cost activities guaranteed to bring giggles into your home.
1. Music to Laugh By
Ditch the same old kids’ songs for a day and mix things up with unexpected, upbeat tunes. Whether it’s classic rock, disco, or a throwback pop playlist, the key is to pick music that YOU enjoy too—your enthusiasm will be contagious!
Then, start a family dance-off with the silliest moves possible. Think robot arms, noodle legs, or dramatic slow-motion twirls. Bonus giggles for air guitar solos!
2. Peekaboo in the Car
Waiting in the car can be dull for little ones, so why not turn it into a peekaboo session? Hide behind your seat’s headrest and pop up with funny faces or different voices. Even toddlers who have played peekaboo a hundred times will love the surprise element of this car-friendly version.
3. Munch Munch Monsters
Grab a puppet, a stuffed animal, or even your own hands and let them become a hungry monster! Have the “monster” chomp down on imaginary food, loudly slurping and munching. Pretend to “accidentally” nibble their fingers—but not too hard! The sillier the noises and reactions, the better the laughs.
4. Crawling Chase
Even if your child is a confident walker, getting down to their level and playing a crawling chase game is bound to cause hysterics. Try:
- Crawling hide-and-seek behind furniture.
- Pretending to be a silly animal (think slow-motion turtle or speedy crab).
- Surprise tickle attacks when they catch you!
This game is a great way for older siblings to bond with younger ones too.
5. Acrobats and Circus Play
Turn your lounge into a mini circus! Encourage kids to:
- Walk a pretend tightrope (a piece of tape on the floor).
- Tumble, roll, or do “tricks” (safely!).
- Dress up as clowns and paint each other’s faces.
Older kids can put on a mini show with homemade tickets for a full performance experience.
6. Bulldozers and Bear Hunts
Make storytime interactive! While reading a favourite book, act out the action:
- Be a bulldozer by nudging them gently with your head as you play-wrestle.
- Crawl and stomp through the house as you re-enact We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.
- Play “the floor is lava” whenever something exciting happens in the story.
Bringing books to life makes reading feel like a game, keeping kids engaged and excited.
7. Change the Words
Children love catching adults making mistakes! Try:
- Swapping words in a favourite bedtime story (calling a dog a banana, for example).
- Singing a well-known song with mixed-up lyrics.
- Making up nonsense words together to describe objects.
This boosts early literacy skills while keeping things light and silly.
8. Do Something Unexpected
Shake up daily routines with little surprises:
- Have dessert for breakfast and pancakes for dinner.
- Let them brush your teeth instead of the other way around.
- Have a backwards day, where clothes, meals, and even walking are done in reverse!
It’s a simple way to create memorable family moments while keeping kids engaged in everyday tasks.
9. Funny Food Games
Make mealtimes a laugh-fest by turning food into a game:
- Silly sounds – Give food funny names and noises (e.g., “squishy spaghetti monster”).
- Slurping and munching challenge – Have a night where loud eating is encouraged!
- Themed food nights – On St. Patrick’s Day, serve green eggs and ham, or create a rainbow plate of fruits and veggies.
A playful approach to food can encourage picky eaters to try new things too.
10. Laugh to Learn
Trying something new together—especially when it involves a bit of clumsiness—is a guaranteed way to create giggles.
- Attempt a new sport like roller skating or mini-golf.
- Learn a funny instrument (kazoos, ukuleles, or harmonicas are great options).
- Try an upside-down challenge—can you say your name while hanging your head off the couch?
By embracing mistakes and laughing at your own mishaps, you’re teaching resilience and confidence in the best way possible.
By Kelly Eden-Calcott
