Do your children complain about being bored?
What do you do about it?
Well, studies show that the best thing we can do for the children is let them be bored!
Teachers know children are quick to say, "I'm bored," when what they mean is, "I don't feel like doing this work." These words can have a lot of power, and need to be taken in stride. Don't let "This is boring!" become an excuse to get out of work, or a way of getting someone to provide them with entertainment.
Once you determine they are truly bored, here's some interesting information.
Yes, it's true. There is a whole lot of scientific evidence to prove that creative thinking happens when children (and adults) do their best thinking when they are bored. Let them get bored and enjoy watching how creative they can get!
I know what you're thinking: how can boredom build confidence? Well, when children learn to entertain themselves without another person telling them what to do, they gain confidence in themselves. They realize they can do it! They have the power!
This makes sense, doesn't it? Boredom is the problem. Children think of creative ways to solve that problem, as long as no one interferes to entertain them. You'll be amazed at how many problems children can solve when given the opportunity! Then, of course, their confidence will continue to grow!
Admit it, these times are quite stressful! Please don't add the pressure to constantly entertain your children. Take some time for yourself, and let the children entertain themselves. They'll come up with something! They'll be fine. Make sure you are fine as well.
They are still kids! If they're not used to having to entertain themselves, expect a major whine-fest! It will take some time before they've figured it all out, but it's important that they do figure this out!
In the meantime, wean them slowly into the world of creativity! Provide art materials, and give them some hints of what's available and what they could do.
But watch them closely!
Boredom can also be a sign of clinical depression. That's a serious situation.
Special needs children may also need more guidance.
Honestly, you know your children best. Watch them closely, give them plenty of love, and encourage them to be creative.
Here's a blog post I wrote years ago that's very appropriate for this situation: Lessons Learned
Here's another related blog post that I wrote this week: Avoiding TOO MUCH Screen Time!
How do you help your students when they claim to be bored?
