We frequently find, like most parents, that our kids look to us to solve simple problems for them. A common issue that we’re asked to work out: Boredom.
Perhaps it is because we love spending time with our kiddoes, and planning out all sorts of adventures, that they expect us to offer up something ‘interesting’ to do. But we know that they need to find ways to entertain themselves. Otherwise, we’re looking at some future 30 year olds who can’t think of anything to do besides watch TV.
So we’re trying out this tactic:
- Kiddo: “I’m Bored!”
- Parent: “Great!”
This isn’t the end of the conversation, it’s the start. Being bored is OK. It means that your mind is ready to come up with the next great plan and the next great activity. And with so many toys, art supplies, books, bicycles, the great outdoors, the nature channel, and even more to choose from—surely, your fine brain is capable of forming the next great experience.
So we try not to solve the boredom question. We remind our kids of how great it can be to be bored. We nudge them towards figuring out what they want to do to cure their boredom.
Most of the time, they come up with a fantastic plan.
[…] a chorus of “I’m Bored!” to your ears, remember that the best cure for “the boreds” is hands-on activity. Nothing will get your kiddoes to shake the dust off like an active […]