After a day of juggling the never-ending demands of parenthood, finding the energy for Pinterest-worthy parenting can feel like an impossible feat. Parents navigate a whirlwind of work calls, school pickups, playdates, dinner battles, and endless house errands. While we might wish we could show up to playtime with high enthusiasm, the reality is, sometimes the best we can offer is a more relaxed, horizontal version of ourselves. And that’s where the beauty of horizontal parenting lies. This is the art of giving your kids all the love and attention they need—without exhausting yourself to the point of burnout. It’s not about perfection or constant activity, but about being present in simpler, quieter ways—whether that means lying on the couch for a cuddle, letting our kids climb over us like a jungle gym, or simply sharing a laugh while we rest together. 

Horizontal parenting is also a reminder that connection doesn’t require exhaustion—sometimes, it’s about slowing down and embracing the moments of stillness that bring us closer.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

What Is Horizontal Parenting?

Horizontal parenting is when parents take a more relaxed approach to spending time with their kids. Instead of always being active or on the go, it’s about being present and connected while also taking care of yourself. The word “horizontal” refers to lying down or resting, like relaxing on the couch or bed, while still engaging with your child. It is an approach that challenges the myth that parenting has to be non-stop action and energy to be meaningful. It's a reminder that connection doesn’t always require an elaborate adventure or a perfectly staged moment. In fact, some of the most genuine connections happen when we allow ourselves to slow down, rest, and engage in simpler, quieter ways.

Whether we’re in their jungle gym, sharing a laugh, or just lying side by side, those moments of calm connection can be just as meaningful as more extravagant activities. And let’s face it—parenting is exhausting. Allowing ourselves the space to rest, while still being present, is vital not just for our own well-being, but also for our kids. They don’t need us to be constantly “on” in an idealised, superhuman way. What they need is our presence—whether that’s through active play or quiet moments. 

 

Related Post: 10 Positive Parenting Tips

 

So, yes—if taking a moment to lie down, relax, and simply be with our kids helps us be more present and joyful, then horizontal parenting is a win. It’s about creating space to show up, even when we’re physically drained, and finding beauty in the simplicity of shared moments. And in the end, those small moments of connection are often the ones that stay with our kids the longest.

 

Related Post: What Is Your Parenting Style?

 

Should Parents Be Guilty While Adopting Horizontal Parenting?

Absolutely not. Horizontal parenting is a form of self-care that should be embraced without guilt. It's all about balancing your needs with your children’s. After all, an exhausted, stressed-out parent can't provide the best care for their child. By practising horizontal parenting, you’re prioritizing your well-being, which ultimately benefits your entire family. So don't feel bad about taking a break and snuggling up with your little ones on the couch or bed. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

 

7 Horizontal Parenting Activities to Stay Connected With Your Kids

Zoom Cars on Parent’s “T-shirt Road”

How to Play: Parents become the racetrack! Use a shirt (preferably one that can be spread out easily, like an old one with no buttons) and draw a road or track on the back of it with fabric markers or washable crayons. The kids can race their toy cars up and down the road while the parent lays back and provides commentary like a race announcer. Add ramps, curves, or pit stops to make it more exciting!

 

Parent as the Ragdoll in Dress-Up Play

How to Play: Parents are the perfect ragdoll! Have the kids use the parent's body as a "dress-up mannequin" for costumes, blankets, or even clothes from their own wardrobe. They can drape them with scarves, hats, or dress them up with little accessories. The parent can even pretend to be a mannequin, with no movement or reactions, or make funny “ragdoll” poses that the kids have to copy or build around.

 

DIY Whack-a-Mole (Parent Edition)

How to Play: Turn the parent into a giant mole in this DIY whack-a-mole game! While they lay on the floor, have the kids take turns using soft foam “mallets” or pool noodles to gently tap the parent’s body when they "pop" up in different spots (like when they lift their head, hands, or feet). It’s a low-energy activity for the parents but lots of giggles for the kids as they try to catch them in action.

 

Scratch a Sequin “n Garden”

How to Play: For a calm, sensory experience, create a DIY "n garden" on the parent’s back using a large sequin pillow or fabric. The sequins will make a satisfying scratching sound as the kids move their fingers across the fabric. The kids can take turns gently scratching or tracing calming patterns, or even use small combs or brushes for added texture. It’s a quiet, relaxing moment for the parent while still being engaging for the kids.

 

Related Post: Parenting Hacks: 7 Ways To Manage Responsibilities Amid Holiday Season

 

Giant Tic-Tac-Toe on Parent’s Belly

How to Play: The parent’s belly becomes the game board! Use body-safe markers or washable tape to create a giant tic-tac-toe grid on the parent’s stomach, chest, or legs. The kids can take turns using a washable marker (for “X”) and a sticker or small toy (for “O”) to claim the spaces. The parent can help by calling out numbers for the spaces (if the kids are too little to count yet), making it a fun, low-energy but interactive game.

 

Build a “Parent Tower” with Blocks

How to Play: While the parent relaxes, have the kids build a tower using toy blocks or soft foam building sets on the parent’s body. The fun challenge is that the parent becomes the "foundation," and the kids can get creative with their tower-building while they lay still. You can make it a race to see how high they can stack the blocks before they topple over, or just let them build a fantastical structure.

 

 “I Spy” From the Couch

How to Play: A simple and relaxing game of "I Spy" is perfect for horizontal parenting. Lie on your back and ask your child to find things in the room based on colour, shape, or texture. You can also mix it up with the theme "I Spy" (e.g., “I spy something that’s soft” or “I spy something that’s blue”), turning a simple game into a fun sensory activity.

 

Related Post: Eggshell Parenting And It's Impact on Children

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.