A dear friend of mine once asked, “Why do you work with kids?” Not knowing exactly what she meant, I sought clarification. She replied, “You know, kids are so sticky! And messy. And full of germs!” We chuckled together because, it’s true. Even comedian Louis C.K. stated: “Kids are like buckets of disease…”
As we begin to enter cold and flu season, I thought it a propos to share some interesting scientific research with you. You may already be familiar with data suggesting that exposure to germs actually increases antibodies and immunity for fighting disease. Or, that children exposed to pets, animals, and day care may ultimately have fewer allergies later in life. But what about us adults exposed to the messy, sticky, germs of our beloved children? What’s in it for us?
Well, scientists have connected the warm, fuzzy, loving feelings that we feel for our children to the hormone oxytocin. We now know that oxytocin is pumped through our bodies during moments of bonding and connection. New research is now suggesting that individuals who experience close connection and bonding with others have a significantly lowered risk of heart disease and other illnesses. Perhaps we can think of our beloved children as both little pathogens of germs and little antibodies of love?
So after you finish reading this blog post, grab a book and go snuggle up with your little one. Pull up a chair next to your child and build or draw together. Walk over to your child and simply take an interest in whatever interests them. These are all important moments of bonding and connection. Don’t be afraid to hug and kiss your loved-ones as much as you can. After all, it’s for your health!
But first, you may want to wipe them off with sanitizer and wash your hands too.