Of course, I have found safer ways to play on the floor with him that don't paint me black and blue. Here are some tactics I use:
- Observe and Protect: If I'm on the floor, I constantly monitor his location so that I can put an arm up to protect my face or prevent him from jumping on my leg.
- Handy Dandy Pillow: Keeping a pillow close at hand can help to deflect strong movements. The pillow will protect sensitive spots, as well as arms if the move is too much for "observe and protect."
- French Style: No, it's not what you think. I mean cheek to cheek. The riskiest part of a kiss is the momentum of a toddler's head as it approaches your teeth. French style avoids that by only exposing the less tender part of the face.
- French with a Twist: This way starts the same as French Style, but at the last second I turn my head to touch my lips to his cheek. This allows me to minimize the risk to my nose and teeth.
- The Head Lock: Again, not what you think. Placing my hands on either side of his face allows me to take some control and limits the power behind any movement.