How to Help Your Kids Beat Boredom

Chores

Yes, we know, our parents did this to us too, but it’s a fair response. We all know kids put off their chores until they absolutely have to do them, and it’s a good moment to teach your children that getting their chores done now instead of rushing to do them later pays off in the long run. Or, if you’ve got a big task to tackle, like sorting out donations, and they’re responsible enough, put them in charge and let them go at it. If you’re discussing screens, consider paying them in screen time, so they learn games and TV are a reward, not a right.

Volunteer

Pitching in is a good way not just to fight boredom, but also to show kids the wider world and develop a greater appreciation of what they have. It’s easy to find volunteer work for the whole family, whether you help out at an animal shelter, work in a soup kitchen, or clean up in a local park. You can get some fresh air, see parts of your town you may not be familiar with, and show your children the rewards of working for others.

Cooking

Especially if a rainy day is in the forecast, cooking is an excellent way to both fight boredom and teach life skills. Pick out something that’s a project to build, like a slow-cooked roast or a long-simmering stew, and have the family help you prep, cook, and serve. The best meal is one you learn about together and work on as a team, so challenge yourself to make something new. It’ll be fun and educational not just for them, but for you as well.

Crafting

Another way to stop boredom is to be constructive. There’s a host of crafting ideas on the internet, and you can pick out a few with your children that they can get to work on. Especially if the holidays are approaching, kids can make their own Christmas gifts, or design new cards. They can scrapbook their year at school, or older kids can learn textile arts or woodwork.

Book Club

If you know a rainy, blah weekend is coming up, take the family to the bookstore and pick out a book you can all read together and discuss. Or, if there are a lot of families in the neighborhood, you can put together a kids-only book club, supervised by the adults, where they can read and discuss something they’re all interested in.

There’s a lot for kids to do, whether it’s bright out or the skies have opened up. Parental control apps can help you teach your kids to balance online and real-world fun. Interested in learning more? Try Screen Time for free.