I was speaking with a patient the other day and she shared with me the number one thing she wants for her two sons; is them to be happy. Happiness in the one thing every parent wants for their kids. New research shows that in 67 countries all parents answered they just want their children to be happy. If you are a parent you know how true this is. In my adult relationships my mission is to make my husband and family happy, however I don’t depend on my husband to be my happiness. I believe we can learn from this. What is true as adults is true for kids. True happiness isn’t something we get from our parents or anyone else. As a parent you can offer encouragement to help your child unleash their own happiness. Recently, my sister had my niece’s third birthday and it was complete with activities, a hay ride and great food. My sister

does everything she can to make my niece happy. I think for most parents practically everything they do is motivated by a desire to see their children be happy. The good news is that there is much you can do to encourage them to discover true happiness. Every day, you can offer essential encouragement through your time, your own example, and your support. As you encourage your children to be happy, you may notice you become happier too.

1. Enjoy your happiness

If you want your kids to be happy you must work on your own happiness first. You are your child’s best teacher. Your kids will learn essential lessons from you on how to be happy and content. If you are grateful, in a good mood, happy, and fun your child will learn just that. Children learn from example, so remind yourself, therefore, as often as possible, that your happiness is a gift to you and your family. When you are happy you are relaxed and able to love your family unconditionally. You being happy will show your children the best you and how to be the best them.

2. Learn from your children

I believe we can learn a lot from children about happiness. Children don’t worry; they live in the moment, and enjoy each moment and make the best of each moment. The best thing we can do is let our children live in the moment and play with them. Play with your kids and crawl around on the floor with them, enjoy each moment and live in the moment and you will learn children are already happy, its us who get in the way.

3. Remember what LOVE is

Children who “feel” special and “feel” loved will always be happy. Children are appreciative that you make the mortgage every month and that you made dinner; however, don’t forget that when you get lost making the mortgage that your children are hungry for your love too. Parenting is like marriage, it should be love in action every day. How do you show love in action? As a parent you know you love your children, however, I think with busy lives we sometimes forget to show it. At weddings we are reminded the bible verse of what love is: Love is patient, love is kind, Love is not rude, Love always protects, always hopes and love never fails. As a parent you should remind yourself that; “As a parent I am patient, as a parent I am kind, as a parent I am not rude, I always protect, always hope and will always love my children.” Remember also to say “I love you” and after that find ways to say I love you with your actions too.

– Cammi Balleck, Ph.D, is a leading Happy Hormone Doctor. She specializes in teaching how to unleash your happy hormones and nutrition. She graduated in 2003 with a Doctorate Degree in Naturopathic Health. Cammi has been the owner of the successful Elite Wellness Center since. She has also been a Director at Colorado Northwestern Community College since 2007. Cammi’s passions are helping everyone improve their health, in addition to finding their full potential, accepting who they are and helping others live happy, healthy, whole lives. More information can be found at /