Boredom Is Good for Your Children

By Donna Stark

There are a lot of scary side effects that come from too much screen time, but forcing your children to detox from their electronic devices can seem even scarier for many parents. After all, what are your children going to do to fill the time? Other than constantly complain that they are bored to tears? Well, those first few days of a detox may be a struggle for everyone, but knowing that boredom is actually good, essential, and healthy for your kids could make things a bit easier for you. Take a look at why all children should experience some boredom in their lives.

Strengthens Connections With Others

We're all looking for connections with others, and our children are no different. By reducing the time you and your children spend on electronic devices, you can help everyone nurture and strengthen the real relationships and bonds in their lives because the connections we make in person are much more satisfying than the ones we make on our phones. 

Encourages Creativity

Once all the complaining is done, your children may allow their minds to wander and come up with new ways to entertain themselves, but be prepared! Boredom encourages creativity, imagination, and problem-solving. Now, that doesn't mean you need to be on standby to entertain your children. Instead, just be sure your craft table is stocked with goodies, that there is a fresh supply of books waiting to be read, and that all the outside toys are within arm's reach in the garage. You may be surprised to see what your kids come up with.

Increases Productivity

Maybe, just maybe, your bored children will be so bored that they take the extra time to clean their rooms. Wouldn't that be great? Having some extra time with "nothing to do" has been shown to increase productivity, which probably isn't very surprising to you, is it? How many times has your boredom led you to clean out the closets, organize the junk drawer, or do some gardening?

Promotes Appreciation and Gratitude

Learning how to embrace boredom is a big step in learning how to appreciate everything that life has to offer. By taking your eyes off your phones long enough to open them to some of the other things in life, you and your children may see that greater enjoyment and satisfaction can be achieved without having an electronic screen in your face.

Detoxes Don't Have to Be Boring

Digital detoxes may seem like a scary thought, but they are so good for your children in the long run. So, the next time they cry out how bored they are, don't run to the rescue. Let them sit in that boredom and watch what may come out of it! Boredom really can be a powerful thing.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntingdon Valley, Pa.