A study of 2,000 adults has revealed that laughing at everything, not taking oneself too seriously and dancing like no one’s watching are the top signs of being young at heart. The research, commissioned by Cheestrings, identified the top 10 habits that help Brits maintain a youthful spirit, including playing on swings and watching children’s TV shows.
Seven out of ten participants credit their children for helping them retain their playful side, with a whopping 83 per cent believing it’s crucial to stay in touch with their inner child. This, they say, keeps them positive, supports their mental health and reduces stress.
The study was part of Cheestrings’ mission to inject more fun into snacking, coinciding with the release of its new track, Fun Om Nom Nom. The popular lunchbox snack teamed up with behavioural psychologist, Jo Hemmings, who said: “Being fun isn’t about denying age – it’s about embracing a playful, optimistic outlook.”
She said: “It might feel silly, but dancing like no one’s watching or speaking in funny voices can bring families closer through moments of joy, reawakening our inner child. By having a youthful mindset, it can provide a powerful buffer against the pressures of modern life.”
Over two-thirds of parents attempt to tap into their youthful side at least once a week, while one in five do so daily. Those who credit their children for reigniting their sense of fun listed activities such as beach trips (37 per cent), going all out on birthdays (32 per cent) and cooking together (29 per cent) as ways they embrace their inner child.
The childhood activities parents have passed down to their offspring included playing board games (41 per cent), building sandcastles at the beach (35 per cent) and a game of hide and seek (31 per cent).
JLS star Aston Merrygold, who has collaborated with the brand to create a family-friendly dance to the catchy new song, said: “Being playful – it’s about attitude, and to me that comes alive most when I am with my family. Children remind you how fun the little things can be – whether it’s dancing in the kitchen or laughing at silly joke. Those moments of joy keep us all feeling positive and connected.”
Sarah Davies, a spokesperson for Cheestrings, said: “Playfulness is something we never grow out of – and nor should we. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that bring the biggest smiles – and that joy is infectious.
“That’s exactly the spirit we’re celebrating with our Fun Om Nom Nom campaign. We want to reignite that spirit of play for parents and kids alike.”
JO HEMMING’S TOP TIPS FOR STAYING YOUNG AT HEART
1. Sing and dance like nobody’s judging
There’s something gloriously liberating about spontaneous dancing, particularly in safe spaces like your kitchen. Dancing and singing activates endorphins and reawakens our inner child. It’s a playful rebellion against stress, you’re modelling joy and self-expression as a default mood, not a special occasion.
2. Enjoying foods/drinks that are usually for kids.
Nostalgia triggers dopamine – the feel-good hormone- and reminds us of simpler, happier times. Sharing those meals with your children creates intergenerational playfulness.
3. Say ‘yes’ to silly – even if it’s just a hat
When you let your children see you being silly, it teaches them that adulthood isn’t a prison of seriousness – and reminds you of the freedom in not taking life too seriously.
4. Swap one scroll for one swing
Ditch five minutes of doom-scrolling and replace it with an activity you loved as a child -maybe swinging in the park, blowing bubbles, or playing a quick game of tag.
5. Let your kids be your tour guides
Letting your kids steer the day reminds you that wonder isn’t just for the young – it’s for the young at heart.