Positive Parenting: Oh no, my child is bored! What should I do?

by Amanda Mathews

Sometimes the answer to the question in this headline is, “Nothing,” because that is when creativity and imaginative play happen.  These are important parts of a child’s development because they make the mind grow in a new way.

Your initial response may be, “Oh no, my child is bored. It is my fault. I’m not making life fun enough right now. How can I fix this?”

When children walk up and tell you they are bored, try saying, “Great! You’re ready to learn,” or “I love being bored, it’s the best!”

“Children need to sit in their own boredom for the world to become quiet enough that they can hear themselves.”  –Dr. Vanessa Lapointe, author and parenting educator

Children’s lives and adults’ lives are so busy; yet, when there is down time for our kids, we try to plan for what’s next. As a result, children do not know what to do for themselves when there is down time, and that is where the problem lies. The moments that happen when children say, “I’m bored,” are amazing!  Something sparks the fire for children’s development and learning when boredom occurs and a child figures out, on their own, what to do with themselves.

When children are bored their brains have to:

• Problem solve
• Think creatively
• Better understand themselves
• Think for themselves

All of the above can improve a child’s psychological well-being.

It is very easy to want to give your child technology—whether it is the IPad, TV, smartphone, etc—to help them become “un-bored,” but that can make it more difficult for a child’s creativity to come to light. When children are aware, they become inspired, and the next big idea can arise.

It is okay for your child to be bored. All children have great minds; just wait and see what they create the next time they are bored.

Photo credit: sweetfrugallife.com

Activity Highlight: Cloud Dough. Mix hair conditioner and cornstarch to create a dough. You can then use a variety of materials, such as, toothpicks, butter knives, cookie cutters, etc. to expand the play.  This is a great way to build fine motor skills!

Looking Ahead: Mark your calendars for Parent University at Smith Elementary School, Stockbridge, to be held on the first Wednesday of the month, February through June, 2024. Parent University is a chance for families to learn more about topics related to children. We will begin by exploring Love and Logic. Dinner, childcare and a chance to win prizes will be available. We will also be offering a virtual Zoom option if you are unable to attend in person. Free registration by February 1 is required at https://bit.ly/PantherParentU .

It is okay for your child to be bored. All children have great minds; just wait and see what they create the next time they are bored. Photo credit: Marissa Hicks

Amanda Mathews

Amanda Mathews is a mother of two girls and is a Young 5s teacher in Stockbridge. She has been in the early childhood field for more than 10 years. Her family moved to Gregory two years ago, and they love getting to be part of this amazing community.