According to recent data from Monitoring the Future, a government-funded organization that examines trends among adolescents, kids today are experiencing unprecedented levels of boredom. While this might initially seem concerning, experts and parents alike are highlighting the positive aspects of boredom in fostering creativity and flexible thinking among children. Psychologists and parents are advocating for less screen time and more opportunities for kids to engage in self-directed play and exploration.
Stacey Rosenfeld, PhD, a psychologist from Rockland County, champions the benefits of boredom. She describes it as "one of life's bonuses," suggesting that it provides a unique space for children to innovate and think creatively. Rosenfeld emphasizes that during these periods of inactivity, kids learn essential skills like flexibility and creativity.
“Then we’re in a frenzy of trying to add more excitement to our kids’ day when we should see that boredom is the space where a kid finds new ideas, reads a book and plays with a sibling, which they may not look forward to, but it’s the best option compared to everything else. This is when they learn to be flexible and creative.” – Stacey Rosenfeld, PhD
Renée Gadar, a mother of two, supports this perspective by actively limiting her children's use of digital devices. She encourages them to find their own amusements, believing that too much screen time can hinder their creative development. Gadar's approach involves integrating her children into everyday tasks, transforming routine activities into engaging experiences.
“You have lots of things to play with — go and figure it out.” – Renée Gadar
Gadar shares insights into her parenting strategy, highlighting the importance of interaction during mundane activities like dining out or shopping.
“If we’re going out to eat, we’re talking to each other” – Renée Gadar
“If we’re going to the store, we’re talking about what we’re seeing and we’re making jokes” – Renée Gadar
Katie Garnovsky, a full-time mom and freelance on-air entertainment correspondent, also integrates her daughters into daily errands. She believes these moments shouldn't be labeled as boring but rather opportunities for learning and bonding.
“I incorporate the kids into the daily ‘boredom’ of everyday tasks because I want my kids to know that these things don’t have to be boring” – Katie Garnovsky
Garnovsky finds joy in visiting the grocery store with her daughters and encourages them to take part in these activities creatively.
“We go to the grocery store every day after school and I take pride and joy in that errand” – Katie Garnovsky
Her older daughter consistently carries a notebook and pen, ready to document thoughts or engage in creative play.
“No matter where we go, my older daughter always brings a notebook and a pencil or pen with her — she’s been doing it since she was 3 years old” – Katie Garnovsky
Rebecca Kennedy, Ph.D., author of "Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be," advocates for removing immediate sources of stimulation. She encourages parents to perceive their children's boredom as an opportunity for growth rather than a problem to solve.
“When there’s a lull in the day, parents think that it’s our problem to solve or maybe unconsciously we think their boredom is a barometer of whether or not we’re good parents” – Rebecca Kennedy, Ph.D.
Kennedy advises parents not to rush in adding excitement to their children’s lives but rather to allow them to explore this space for creativity.
Rosenfeld echoes these sentiments by noting that children are inherently resourceful when dealing with boredom. Even amidst complaints, they often find something engaging to do on their own. Parents like Gadar ensure that screens are not an option during these times, encouraging their children to discover alternative ways to occupy themselves.
“I always feel more connected to them when we’ve had a day where we’ve been on the go, talking and connecting. It seems like that’s when my kids are the snuggliest” – Renée Gadar
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