Huh? What Makes Utah Kids Happy Is Parents

Utah was recently shown to be the happiest state according to Wallethub. The survey looked at adults and their physical well-being, work environment and such. So, would those results reflect how kids feel in Utah? We certainly don’t want our kids walking around glum, unless they have hit the teenage years when that is expected. 

How do you make sure your kids are happy? Do you make sure they have lots of time with friends, all the best clothes, several trips to theme parks proclaiming to be the happiest place on earth? Maybe limit any punishment for bad behavior? 

According to a survey reported by John Hopkins, the thing that makes kids happy is their parents. Wait, did I read that right? The parents make their kids happy? 

• The majority of kids we surveyed (67%) say they get along well, or pretty well, with their parents. 85% of kids said they have fun with their parents. 

As kids get older, they do want to spend more time with friends, but the survey showed the time with their parents was still important. What their parents thought of them mattered and had an influence on how they thought of themselves and their happiness. 

I guess this shouldn’t be that big of a revelation. A good stable place surrounded by people who love you is bound to have a positive effect. For some reason it is surprising to realize kids may actually like their parents. Thank goodness someone bothered to ask them. 

Now that you have this information, maybe this year, skip the latest digital technology and get your kids what they really want, more time with you.