We all enjoy a jolly good giggle.

In this challenging era, laughter is a sweetener that helps make our souls feel lighter and is extremely good for our mental wellbeing. Actually, the comedy sector is renowned to peak during times of austerity: we often feel the urge to escape from reality, and we need the tonic as much as we need water!

So, how can you create your own giggles? I think the answer is in childish banter and silly games: things that don’t tax our frazzled minds. Pursuits that are easy, inclusive, and lasting.

Let me share my current tear-jerker with you, and it’s fast amusing many – although my daughter thinks that I’m nuts!

Pixie, my adorable spaniel, “speaks” Italian – she is now bi-lingual, and I am a very proud mummy! Whilst we’re not Italian, I understand a little and wished to improve my vocabulary one day during the lockdown. I had nobody but Pixie to practice with, so she became my coach.

Now, almost a year on, my furry baby is most proficient: she understands and responds to about ten commands, and she’s accruing more knowledge each week! My partner, who also thinks I’m crazy, has had to eat much humble pie. At first, he thought her responses were merely a coincidence: “Emma, she’ll do anything for a treat!”

But, of course, he’s been picking up the language too and testing Pixie when he thinks I can’t hear him! The other day we visited his elderly father and we loved showing off Pixie’s new talent with him, and so came the domino effect of laughter.

The hilarious consequence is that Pixie is now more responsive to Italian commands than in those spoken in her mother tongue! And this wondrous game continues to bring lasting joy without costing a single penny.

So, what can you do to create some giggles in your home?