Hand slappy

I remembered this game recently and I was SO glad I did. I don't know if almost anything has informed my parenting style more than the amazing Playful Parenting class I took with Kirsten Nottleson a few years ago. One of the major things I carry with me from that class is that usually when kids are off-kilter they just really really want to re-connect with you. And I think unfortunately for us, we love to reconnect by talking, but for the littler ones it's not that easy. Eye contact, physical closeness, and laughter are super important elements that help them get back on track, and this slapping game rolls 'em all up in to one. Here's the instructions if you've never heard of it before:

Step1

Find a partner.

Step2

Face each other.

Step3

Have your partner hold out his or her hands, palms down.

Step4

Hold out your hands, palms up, about an inch below your partner's hands.

Step5

Attempt to bring your hands over and slap the tops of your partner's hands - while she tries to move them away before being slapped.

Step6

Reverse roles after slapping your partner's hands three times, and begin the game again.

I just have to say, I played this with Jack two nights ago when he was in near-tantrum mode and he has been an angel-pie ever since. OK, truthfully, we did do some wrestling too which is a HUGE help, but when you don't have the time/energy/patience, this game I think could be a little quick fix or life saver.