Engage in Rough-and-Tumble Play (Safely)

Remember when you thought 'wrestling' was just for WWE and not, say, your living room at 7:13am? Welcome to the world of rough-and-tumble play, where you’re simultaneously a jungle gym, a crash pad, and an amateur referee—bonus points if you don’t get a Lego embedded in your knee. If you’re looking to burn off your kids’ energy (and maybe your own existential dread), this one’s for you.

This kind of play is like emotional CrossFit for kids: it teaches them how to handle excitement, frustration, and even disappointment—all while their brains are growing connections for self-control, empathy, and resilience. For parents, it’s a chance to bond, get goofy, and maybe sneak in a mini workout (or at least justify that second coffee).

How to do it

First, clear a safe space. Move any pointy furniture out of the way and, for the love of knees, check for stray toys.

Set some ground rules:

  • No hitting faces
  • No surprise ninja moves
  • Everyone can call a timeout at any time

Keep it playful. Encourage lots of laughter, silly sound effects, and dramatic slow-motion falls.

Watch your kid’s cues. If they seem overwhelmed or upset, dial it back.

Above all, keep it short and sweet. Leave them wanting more—not needing an ice pack.

When you notice your kid is bouncing off the walls after school or daycare.

Drop to your knees and say, 'Wrestle time!' while opening your arms wide.
Do your best victory dance or superhero pose—bonus if your kid joins in.
Designate a 'wrestle zone' in your living room with a couple of soft cushions or a folded blanket.

Right before bedtime, when your kid is still a ball of energy and you’re wondering why you ever thought sugar-free snacks were enough.

Play the first 30 seconds of the playlist and let your kid tackle you onto the bed (gently!).
High-five your kid and declare, 'We survived Wrestlemania: Pajama Edition!'
Create a silly 'wrestle playlist' with your child’s favorite upbeat songs.

When you’re both on the floor already—maybe after picking up toys or searching for lost puzzle pieces.

Initiate a gentle pillow push or roll, making eye contact and a silly face.
Burst into exaggerated giggles or do a dramatic slow-motion 'defeat' fall.
Teach your child a safe 'timeout' signal (like touching their nose) to use if play gets too wild.