The laughing and dancing part comes easy. Often they go together. Your child’s giggles follow your jiggles. Your children know better than anyone how parents can be struck goofy by the silliest things. The little kid within comes bubbling to the surface and it’s all over. Allow that belly laugh to blow and set a positive example of what’s “normal” in your family.

Singing may prompt laughter as well, though the hilarity is unintended. Children love to guffaw at their parents almost as much as with them. Humor frees your children to join in on the fun. They see that Mom and Dad have their crazy moments too.

Crying can be tougher. Cultural or familial norms frequently prevent parents from appropriately emoting in moments of supreme sadness. When tragedy strikes, don’t be afraid to let tears fall and sobs come. Your children may not fully understand, but they’ll be touched because you are. They’ll see that big boys and girls, like you, are sad sometimes. They will begin to develop empathy and compassion for others and a better understanding of their own emotional lows.

The Bible says even Jesus wept. Overcome with the sadness at losing a dear friend, He cried. But that’s only one snapshot. At other times the Teacher joked. Help your children see the sparkle in His eye.

God made us to feel—to hurt, laugh, dance, sing, and smile. That’s what living is all about. By allowing them to witness the whole gamut of adult intensity and emotion, you do your kids a huge favor. You put them in touch with their emotions and teach them when it’s appropriate to let their feelings show—keys to a happy, well-adjusted life.