The Playful Parent™

Kites-n-Kids!

One of the most memorable moments in the classic film, Mary Poppins, is found in the unadulterated joy of flying kites with kids. And why shouldn't it be? Making a family memory like this can bring smiles that last a lifetime.

Truth is, most of us have a kite or two tucked in a closet somewhere, but never manage to get them out and use them. Well it’s time for you to make a happy memory, so dig out your kites and introduce 'em to your kids!

Summary: Let's go fly a kite!
Best for: All ages. Younger kids will need help, and older ones might need a little help getting started or looking for a good flying spot.
Supplies: Kites and string (and maybe scissors)

Before You Begin

Find a kite that’s going to work for you and your child. There are lots of articles and ideas for building a kite, but to be honest, it’s a lot of work and the ones you make at home from sticks and paper generally don’t hold up too well to the wind. And a broken kite isn’t exactly fun. We recommend you buy a kite. Choose one that’s simple to assemble (meaning you have to snap about one stick into place and you’re done), and be sure you have lots of string.

If you have older kids or ones that have flown kites before, you might want to try a more challenging kite. But for most of us a basic kite will be fine.

Put the kite beside the front door—not behind a bunch of junk in your closet where you’ll forget about it. Check the paper or news report every day. Get your kids checking to build some excitement. Is it going to be windy? The first windy day—you’ll be ready.

Ready to Go!

The wind is blowing and you’re ready to play! Grab your kite and find a wide open spot to fly it. A park without trees or powerlines is ideal, and a lot of beaches are good too (as they’re generally a bit breezy anyway). Look out for other people—you don’t want your kite crashing onto anyone!

When you have a spot, get that kite up in the air. See how high you can get it! And, if you happen to get a knot or two in your string it may be easier to just cut the knot out, tie a new string to your kite, and start over. (If you just can’t bear to throw away string take the wad home and sort out the knot later—but don’t let it spoil the fun when you’re out in the moment!)

Once your kite is airborne, enjoy watching it soar, dip, and dive. They need constant tending, but one of the pleasures is there’s plenty of time for talking while you’re watching your kite. Enjoy that too!

Bonus

Give awards for fun categories like: "Highest Flight"; "Most Likely to Reach the Moon"; "Coolest Flight Path" "Most Unexpected Flight"; "Superstar Kite Flyer" and more. Make sure every child gets an award!

 

--Mike & Amy Nappa

Why We Play

Research has shown that the ability to play is a critical part of maintaining a happy lifestyle, of sustaining social relationships, and fostering a creative and innovative personality.

Play actually shapes the neuron paths in the brain and makes us smarter and more adaptable to life circumstances.

Additionally, a healthy play-life as a child is a surprisingly accurate predictor of career success as an adult. 1

And...it's fun to play. So what are you waiting for? Use this Playful Parent idea to share a little bit of play-life with your children today!

1. Source: Play by Stuart Brown, M.D. (New York: Avery, a member of the Penguin Group USA, 2009.) Pp. 4-13