From Parenting 24/7: University of Illinois Extension
Feeling bored or restless
Posted May 17, 2007.
The typical thought surrounding “boredom” that comes to mind for many families is a child with time on their hands coming to Mom asking, “What can I do? I’m b-o-r-e-d!”
Reality Check: Today most families (parents and children alike) would love to have such ample free time that allows someone to become bored!
Still some factors concerning boredom are valuable to consider for today’s parents.
Children often get restless if they need to wait for long periods of time. They are sometimes expected to:
- attend sporting event
- be in a car over long distance
- wait in line
It is the wait time that causes restlessness and can lead to behavior problems.
Parents and caregivers have an important role in guiding their children. They can help children learn how to manage their own behavior while waiting. A child who has learned self control has a more positive outlook and can learn to ask for help when waiting or if boredom is a problem.
Here are some suggestions that can help make waiting times easier.
1. While in the car
- Keep tapes or CDs, drawing material, and games to play while driving. Be sure to rotate the items so they don’t become tiresome.
- Let a child create a game of their own in anticipation of a long trip.
2. While in line
- Rhymes and songs are great for standing in line waiting.
- Counting as far as the child can is a great way to review and practice skills.
- Keep some scratch papers and crayons or markers handy to let them use.
- Give the child a task such as “what type of cookies should we plan on making for the supper tomorrow?”
3. While at sporting events
- If possible, walk around to use pent up energy.
- Bring a small toy that doesn’t make loud noises.
- Let your child keep score or write down other pertinent information about the game you are watching.