10 Ways to Have a Childlike Thanksgiving

In case you’ve been wondering, yes Adultitis is contagious, but so is being playful and young at heart! Which would you rather spread? There will always be the “Scrooges” of the world who turn their noses up at you, but there is hope… just look at the Grinch, an Adultitis survivor. So, I challenge you to be a real live Adultitis Antidote by modeling a childlike (not childish) existence this Thanksgiving. Be an example of someone living life with less stress and more fun. Does this mean you should channel the 6th grade class clown at the dinner table? Not so much. Crossing the line into childish behavior actually gives childlike behavior a bad rap. (not our mission here!)

Here are “10 Ways to Have a Childlike Thanksgiving.” I’ve also included the childish counterpart, for training purposes. Have fun spreading this childlike way of living, while helping to annihilate the Adultitis in your family (which can sometimes be a tall order!).

1. Be adventurous and try to eat something you’ve never had before.
Childish: Try to replicate the exact plate of food you ate last year, and the year before.

2. Politely ask the host if he/she would mind if you eat your dessert first.
Childish: Make a scene by obnoxiously alerting everyone that you’re eating your pumpkin pie first (without asking the host first).

3. Be mindful of the wishbone, making sure two kids get to “do the honors.”
Childish: Elbow your way to the wishbone, ensuring that you get to be one of the lucky ones to make a wish.

4. While sitting next to a relative you haven’t seen in a while, ask her about herself, using open-ended questions, like “What’s your biggest challenge at your job?” or “What’s your favorite thing about being a mom?” (People LOVE to share “little known” facts about themselves and you can end up learning some neat things.)
Childish: While sitting next to a relative you haven’t seen in a while, start talking about the ’08 presidential election, the war, the current problems with public education and don’t forget religion.

5. Be the catalyst for making a fun family memory– whether it’s cooking together, playing a board game, watching a funny movie, playing flag football, or telling jokes.
Childish: Be the catalyst for getting everyone drinking.

6. Even if you’re not a big football fan, when an exciting play occurs high five your couch potato cousin who is totally into the game.
Childish: Roll your eyes at the football fanatics, making side comments about how dangerous football really is.

7. When a relative starts small talk and asks you what’s new with you, actually share something of value, like a dream or goal you’re working towards. Then, without talking too much about yourself, be sure to reciprocate by asking about his current goals.
Childish: Perpetuate small talk with more small talk, while attempting to get out of the conversation as soon as possible. Use one word answers like, “fine,” “not bad,” and “decent.”

8. Be positive! Smile and take in all of the little joys of the holiday… the smells, the warmth of the kitchen, the gathering of loved ones, the delicious meal, and the enjoyment of football.
Childish: Pout about the fact that your Thanksgiving isn’t exactly how you would’ve liked it. Be resentful, look at the clock often, dread being with your relatives, and wish you were someplace else.

9. Count your blessings! Spend some time alone before the festivities and happenings of the day to think about all that you’re grateful for. Send thanks above for all that you have been blessed with.
Childish: Reflect upon the blessings in your life with pride and self-adulation.

10. Offer to say grace or make a toast, sharing an honest and heartfelt reflection on the blessings in your family over the last year, building others up (especially the cooks!).
Childlike: When someone asks, “Who is going to say grace?” Sarcastically say, “Grace! There… it’s done!”

[tags] Thanksgiving, Adultitis, holidays, Grinch[/tags]