We don’t laugh because we’re happy—we’re happy because we laugh.
—William James, psychologist and author
When was the last time you laughed so hard you couldn’t catch your breath, your belly ached, and tears poured from your eyes? What makes you laugh? There are structures in the brain’s limbic system that seem to play a role in laughter. Research has shown that laughter is important to our social, mental, and physical well-being. Socially, laughter is a universal language that all members of the human species understand, even babies who are only three to four months old! The best part about being with children is their laughter! There is nothing like that belly laugh of a toddler to bring a smile. Laugh—it is good for your soul.
In loving memory of Gryphon House author Leanne Grace, MEd, we are sharing pieces of her inspirational writing every Wednesday. Leanne was the director of professional development at Hildebrandt Learning Centers and a lifelong advocate for early childhood education. She inspired the early childhood community to prepare children as lifelong learners with her ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. One person can make a difference, and Leanne did just that. She will be sorely missed.
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