Boredom doesn’t have to be a problem! Experiencing down time is the best way for children to learn how to deal with it. Children benefit from unstructured time because it teaches them to use their imaginations. When they aren’t told what to play, they explore the world around them and discover things on their own. Sometimes, a child who says “I’m bored” may just want to check in or connect with you. 

Here are a few ways parents can help children battle their boredom:

• Take a few minutes to reconnect with your child. This could include cuddling, reading a book, or just talking. Your child may then be content to come up with something to do on their own. 
• Include your child in your activity. With younger children, giving them a job that helps you out will keep them occupied for a while. Let them use an old rag to “dust” furniture or a wet sponge to “wash” the windows, or simply let them help you make lunch.
• Brainstorm activities together. Although you want your child to figure out what to do with their free time, they may need help coming up with ideas. Create a ‘Boredom Buster’ jar by writing age-appropriate activities on strips of paper and placing them in a container. Activities could include building a fort, painting a picture, a scavenger hunt or making a sculpture out of playdough. The possibilities are endless!

Self-directed play is what children do best, so having more free time each day gives them the chance to be empowered with how they would like to fill it.

PARENTING TIP: Try to avoid using screen time as a solution to boredom. Children can quickly become too dependent on it for entertainment instead of relying on their own imaginations.