When cold weather keeps children indoors you probably will eventually hear the common phrase…. “I’m bored.” When you hear that, how do you respond?
Some children believe that being bored means they are not being properly entertained by others. Encourage them to understand that truly intelligent people rarely are bored because they entertain themselves.
Parents can help their children understand they are responsible for finding something to do and being creative with their time.
Of course, children do need some guidance. But it is an individual’s responsibility to choose his or her own activity and become involved in it. Parents can help their children develop this life skill.
If boredom is occurring in the school environment, work with a child’s teacher to determine if supplemental or enrichment activities are available and might help.
Unfortunately, sometimes the more opportunities individuals have, the more confused they become about what to do, and the more likely they are to sit and complain they are bored. Today’s children, who have so many opportunities, are much more likely to experience boredom than children of fifty years ago who had fewer choices.
Make sure your child understands that it is not up to anyone else to set things in front of him to do, but up to the child to locate supplies and do things independently.
Starting a project that allows a child to be creative may be just what she needs to beat boredom. Consider starting your own indoor projects that hold your interest and are fun and rewarding. Encourage your children to do the same.
To learn about building assets in your children, visit: http://www.mvparents.com/. See also /homefamily/parenting.
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2/5/2007