When was the last time you laughed until your stomach hurt, painted just for fun, or let yourself be unapologetically silly? If it’s been a while, you’re not alone. Many adults get caught in the grind of responsibility and forget the part of them that once thrived on curiosity and joy. Learning how to reconnect with your inner child can be one of the most healing steps you take in adulthood.

Why Reconnecting With Your Inner Child Matters

As we grow, we’re taught to value productivity, achievement, and structure… but in the process, we often silence the child within us who still craves play, rest, and wonder. Ignoring that part of yourself can leave you feeling drained, disconnected, or stuck.

The truth is, reconnecting with your inner child isn’t childish. Research shows that engaging in play is actually powerful…. It strengthens emotional intelligence and resilience. In other words, when you give yourself permission to explore joy and curiosity, you’re also training your brain to handle stress more effectively and bounce back from challenges.

How to Reconnect With Your Inner Child

1. Remember What Lit You Up

Think back to what made you happiest as a kid. Riding your bike, dancing, drawing, or catching fireflies? Start by making a list—your childhood bucket list—and see what resonates with you now.

2. Adapt Play for Today

Not every activity will translate directly, but that’s the beauty of it. Climbing trees might turn into hiking trails. Playing dress-up could evolve into exploring fashion or theater. What matters is tapping into the same spirit of creativity and joy.

3. Schedule Play Like It Matters (Because It Does)

We schedule meetings and deadlines, but rarely schedule fun. Pick one or two activities from your list and put them in your calendar this month. Treat them as essential!

Need inspiration? Here’s a few ideas:

• Build a blanket fort and watch a favorite childhood movie
• Blow bubbles or fly a kite at the park
• Go roller skating, ice skating, or try a trampoline park
• Paint, color, or create something with your hands
• Dance freely to music you loved as a kid

Play Is Healing

When you reconnect with your inner child, you give yourself integration. You allow the part of you that once felt free to merge with the adult who sometimes forgets how to be free. Scheduling play time as an adult reminds you of what fuels you, heals the parts of you that were overlooked, and helps you build resilience for the future.

The child in you is still here. All they need is permission to come out and play.