Everything Exams

I recently re-watched Little Miss Sunshine with my extended family and I ended up crying with laughter. I hadn’t seen it for a number of years and although it has moments of uncomfortable viewing because it’s now a little dated, it still managed to make us all laugh out loud. Laughter certainly makes me feel good inside and it’s the same for children.

Happy Playlists of age appropriate movies and music, prepared in advance for our kids, are wonderful resources which can be whipped out on days when our little ones could do with a boost of happiness to lighten their mood and make them smile. The idea behind this is to help our children tap into their own self-help hormone mechanism, shifting their mood in a positive direction from the inside out. 

When kids listen to happy songs or laugh out loud during a funny scene in a movie, their bodies release endorphins, helping them feel on top of the world.

Endorphins are often called our natural pain killers but they are also known for making us feel euphoric and giving us a general sense of wellbeing. This can really help if our kids are feeling a little bit down and in need of a pick me up. 

Ideally, we need to compile an amazing list of both upbeat songs on a family friendly music playlist and inspirational movies in advance, ready to dip into when needed. There are now millions of songs and movies to choose from on streaming platforms plus free options on some video platforms. For movies, I prefer just to make a written list of the funniest, most heart-warming tales since availability on streaming platforms seems to vary, or of course, purchase copies of your favourites. For kid-friendly songs, it’s easiest to create a playlist if you subscribe to a streaming service, or, once again, you could make another written list or I sometimes just search for my favorite songs for free on YouTube.

Upbeat songs, with a positive message or catchy beat, and dance songs to get your child moving are a good starting place. Younger children love action songs or fun animal songs. Many of these age appropriate songs can be memorised and sung on boring car journeys to liven the mood. The action song ‘If you’re happy and you know it’ springs to mind but there are many classic action songs such as ‘The wheels on the bus’ and ‘Heads, shoulders, knees and toes’

Everyone’s taste in music will differ, but here are a few of my family’s favourite, feel-good songs from our Happy Playist:

Songs

 1. ‘Walking on Sunshine’ by Katrina and The Waves

This is my personal go-to song and I used it many times in the mornings when working as a governess to try to get us all up in the mornings. It’s about enjoying life and feeling good. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a great choice for getting your child moving and dancing.

2. ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’ by Randy Newman

What a cute song this is. This gentle song from “Toy Story” has lovely song lyrics all about friendship and loyalty. Its sweet melody and positive message make it a great choice for any happy playlist for kids.

 3. ‘Everything is Awesome’ by Tegan and Sara feat. The Lonely Island

This song from The Lego Movie is all about celebrating life and having fun and contains a great message for kids. Its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a great addition to any happy playlist for kids. It’s such an inspirational song that I’ve even hummed it myself when playing in team tennis tournaments!

4.  ‘Happy’ by Pharrell Williams

This  excellent song has become a classic for spreading happiness and positivity. Its catchy melody and lyrics are sure to put a smile on your child’s face.

5. ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling’ by Justin Timberlake

This is an epic song to get your kids jumping around smiling. It’s from the movie Trolls and is a favourite among kids for its energetic beat and fun lyrics. It’s a great happy song for dancing and getting your child moving.

4. ‘Best Day of My Life’s by American Authors

This song is all about celebrating life and making the most of every day. Its upbeat tempo and feel-good lyrics make it a great choice for any happy playlist.

5. ‘I Gotta Feeling’ by The Black Eyed Peas

This song is all about having a good time and enjoying the moment. Its catchy beat and positive lyrics make it a fun song to add to a happy playlist for kids.

In terms of feel-good factor movies, here are my family’s top 5:

Movies

1. The Lego Movie

This is such an inventive movie with incredible, laugh out loud moments that I’d thoroughly recommend. It also has a lovely message at the end. We also love the Lego Batman movie.

2. Kung Fu Panda

When my children and I first watched this, it made us roar with laughter. It was also particularly special for us as I used to call my children ‘noodles’. It has a lovely message for children that even when we don’t feel very talented or special, we may well blossom to be so in time.

3.  Enchanted

This is such a brilliant twist on the classic fairytale, with rats and pigeons replacing cute little forest creatures. It is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces and is a great movie for the holiday season.

4. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

A fun, creative idea joined up to a heartwarming message is at the core of this film – I just wish it were possible!

5. Ratatouille 

This  film has an incredible plot, lots of slapstick humour and has a beautiful message for viewers about finding your place in the world. It’s also a great one for adults, especially foodies or lovers of the wonderful city of Paris.