In Praise of Boredom
At this point in the pandemic, boredom is inevitable. But when the complaints from our kids get to be too unpleasant (“I’m SO bored! There’s nothing to do!”), we understandably start scheduling lots of structured activities — or quickly turn to technology — to entertain our listless or whining children. But researchers insist that occasional boredom is an opportunity we should embrace, because it comes with important benefits: It sparks creativity, nurtures imagination and problem solving, and opens up much-needed opportunities for quiet and reflection. Here’s how to bring out the best from those much-maligned stretches of boredom.
– Jenny Friedman, Executive Director
ACTION
Resist the urge to overplan. Children need unscheduled time. It allows them to find creative outlets, try out new interests, and discover what they’re passionate about. Create the right environment by having open-ended “tools” on hand, such as an upcycle bin, flashlight, art supplies, doctor’s kit, magnifying glass, dress-up clothes, and blocks.
Nurture curiosity. Certain “inner tools” can help kids to ward off boredom. Promote curiosity, imagination, and wonder so they see the world as filled with possibility. The more you encourage these traits when you’re together, the more easily your children will handle unscheduled time on their own.
You’re bored? Great! Treat those complaints of boredom with enthusiasm. Say things like, “Awesome! What will you do?” or “Enjoy your free time!” Make it clear that boredom means opportunity. Then encourage your child to figure out inventive ways to manage this uncomfortable feeling.
Be proactive with an idea jar. Brainstorm creative ideas and fun projects, write or diagram them on small strips of paper, and place them in a decorated jar. Then, when the kids are at loose ends, have them dip into the jar for ideas. These can be simple suggestions (play a game) to elaborate challenges (create an obstacle course).
Take in the air. Being outdoors seems to trigger creative juices. Get your children used to being outside in all seasons, so they always see outdoor play and exploration as options for filling their time.
TALK
Chat about how to manage lulls and how they can be turned into opportunities.
Why do you think people might feel bored?
In what ways might boredom be a good thing?
Next time you feel bored, what can you imagine doing that would help you change that?
Why do you think kids (and adults!) quickly turn to electronics when they feel bored? How might that be helpful? What could be the downside?
Researchers say that boredom can spark creativity. Can you imagine how that might be true? Can you remember a time when you felt bored and ended up doing something really special with your time?
BOOKS
Reading these picture books together can get you talking about boredom, exploration, and our limitless imaginations.
On a Magical Do-Nothing Day by Beatrice Alemagna. When a little girl loses her video game, she finds a world of adventure out in the rain. Beautiful illustrations.
Doug Unplugged by Dan Yaccarino. Doug the robot wants to learn about the world by exploring it, not just downloading facts. Reveals the joys of getting “unplugged.”
There’s Nothing to Do! by Dev Petty. Follow along with Frog, who can’t figure out what to do with his day, despite his friends’ inventive suggestions. A celebration of downtime.
Not a Box by Antoinette Portis. Grab those cardboard boxes! This book celebrates imaginative play in its most classic form. After the story, visit our Pinterest Board Kids Can Upcycle! for more ideas about creating something new from something ordinary.
INSPIRATION
"Is life not a thousand times too short for us to bore ourselves?"
—Friedrich Nietzsche, German philosopher, essayist, and cultural critic
"Millions long for immortality who don’t know what to do with themselves on a rainy Sunday afternoon."
—Susan Ertz, Anglo-American writer