The Benefits of Boredom for Kids: Why It's a Good Thing & How to Encourage It!!
With all of the new technology coming out and the pace that it is updated and made better, kids seldom have the opportunity to experience boredom. With screens, WIFI, and structured schedules filling their days, unstructured free time is becoming more rare. We dislike the initial feeling of boredom so much that we choose to fill it with frivolous things. But, if you can weather that initial discomfort of the unknown, the possibilities of your mind become almost endless... especially by the creative minds of children.
Here are a few good examples of why boredom is good for children...
- Boredom encourages creativity and kids are forced to think outside the box to entertain themselves.
- It builds problem solving skills that can make kids less dependent on adults for entertainment.
- It promotes independence and resilience, helping them become more self-sufficient.
- Boredom encourages mindfulness & reflection which is important for emotional growth without distractions.
- It supports social skills such as communication, negotiation, and cooperation.
- It leads to a stronger sense of curiosity, asking questions, and experimenting with new ideas.
Here is how parents can encourage healthy boredom...
Limit screen time: Create space for kids to find entertainment outside of digital devices
Provide open-ended toys & materials: Blocks, Lego's, art supplies, costumes, musical instruments, etc...
Encourage outdoor play: Nature provides endless opportunities for imagination and physical activity.
Resist the urge to over-schedule: Leave room in their day for free, unstructured time.
Let kids figure it out: Instead of suggesting activities, allow them to be bored and come up with their own!
FINAL THOUGHTS:
We are not anti-devices and they definitely have their place in todays world for growing children, especially when used correctly. However, you don't want to use it as a cover up. Often times the fear of boredom, or any negative emotion, is too easily dispelled by a device that we put such a low ceiling on feeling truer happiness & excitement. Boredom is not something to be feared - it's a valuable part of childhood growth and independence. So, the next time your child says, "I'm bored", take it as an opportunity for growth rather than a problem to solve.
PRO-TIP: These same ideas work for adults, as well. Cheers! Have fun being bored!!
