Every tired parent needs to know about this dad’s hilarious ‘horizontal parenting’ style

A Seattle dad has found a creative way to rest while spending time with his kids, calling it “horizontal parenting.”

William Zandstra designed games and activities that keep his children busy while he relaxes and even takes short naps.

His wife, Elkey Zandstra, highlighted his unique approach in an Instagram video, calling him a master of this parenting style.

William told Newsweek that the key is creating fun activities for the kids and allowing them to unwind.

“It’s a tricky balance for sure,” he said.

He has found a clever way to relax while playing with his kids, as shown in a video shared by his wife, Elkey.

The clip features creative games that keep the kids entertained while they rest. One game started with a simple idea: using a massage roller car.

William lies face down as his kids roll the car along a road he drew on the back of a T-shirt, turning an introductory concept into fun family playtime.

He has taken creative parenting to a new level with imaginative games that keep his kids entertained while he rests.

From becoming a “dress-up doll” for felt outfits to turning his chest into a tic-tac-toe board or a “zen garden,” his ideas have been fun and interactive.

His biggest hit, however, is a homemade whack-a-mole game, where he hides under a cardboard board and pops his hand up for his kids to hit.

While not every idea has worked, this game remains a favorite for Zandstra and his children.

“I had an elaborate bowling idea that was frankly over complicated,” he said. “Way too many pieces to juggle especially with kids.”

William’s creative parenting has gained widespread praise on Instagram, with many viewers calling his approach “smart” and “genius.”

The video inspired compliments and encouraged parents facing physical challenges to try similar activities.

One commenter, a disabled parent, thanked him for providing “amazing ways to play.” At the same time, another shared that despite upcoming hip surgery, they could still try his ideas.

Elkey expressed her gratitude for the “heartwarming” feedback and hopes Zandstra will one day collaborate on a book to share his ideas.

For other parents, Zandstra suggests keeping things simple and focusing on their children’s interests as a starting point.

While “horizontal parenting” is new to many parents on social media, Michelle Woo, a parent and journalist, wrote a book about it in 2021.

The book guides parents on entertaining their kids while lying down, using household items and their imagination.

Horizontal parenting offers a practical way for parents to rest while still spending quality time with their kids, providing a much-needed break from the constant demands of play.

It’s normal for parents to feel drained; there’s no shame in needing a moment to recharge.

This approach lets parents relax while keeping their kids entertained, helping them regain the energy needed for other tasks.

However, the ideal solution—where parents can relax while their kids stay in bed—has yet to be discovered.

Moreover, horizontal parenting isn’t about taking the easy way out. It’s about shedding the pressure to always be active and engaged.

Instead, it’s about finding value in simple moments, like being a jungle gym for our kids, which can be as meaningful as grand adventures.

Once we let go of the guilt, we can start to enjoy the little things—the laughter, the playful games, and the eye contact that says, “I see you.”

These moments often create lasting memories that our kids cherish, Motherly noted.

If lying down allows parents to recharge and still be present with their children, it’s a success.

Every parent faces the challenge of balancing their responsibilities. If horizontal parenting helps us connect without burning out, it’s worth embracing.

After all, what truly matters is not how we play but that we play together.

Here’s Michelle Woo giving some tips on horizontal parenting: