Its time for another Life Well Lived Getting Happy panel!

This time, we want to hear more from our readers. How do you teach the children in your life happiness? Please share your best tools and tips in the comments below.

A friend recently posted a picture on her Facebook wall that contained a quote:

“Children are happy because they don’t have a file in their minds called “All the Things That Could Go Wrong.” ― Marianne Williamson

I think that pretty much says it all. While we want to teach children right from wrong, and I am firm believer we need to realize our actions have consequences, there is no reason to squash a child’s joy based on the fears we hold ourselves.

When my nephew was born, suddenly the world took a whole new feel. Suddenly I was seeing wonder and joy in things I had been taking for granted. He was teaching ME happiness!

I, personally, think that the best way to reach children happiness is by learning it from them, and then emulating it back at them. When they laugh at a puppy being silly, laugh with them. See the beauty and wonder in Christmas lights instead of fussing about how much work it takes to put them up. Sit down and color with them.

Children need discipline and structure in their lives. But they also need the opportunity to just be kids… and maybe parents need that opportunity right with them.

What are your thoughts? Leave your thoughts here and join me in the discussion on the main page for this topic on BlogHer. Also, don’t miss your chance to win a Kindle Fire in the Life Well Lived Sweepstakes!