June 11, 2025
School is officially out for the summer! The freedom from standardized classwork and consistent daily schedules may be a breath of fresh air for kids and their caregivers. Many children can enjoy long, warm days that provide rest, relaxation and fun. Sounds like paradise until you to start to hear your child announce: “I’m bored.” What now? We encourage caregivers to give their child the opportunity to soak up the slow days and stress-free benefits from summer break. Although, it is important to think about how a disruption in daily routines and lack of stimulus may affect the mental health of their child. Understanding boredom and how it can positively and negatively affect your child’s emotional and mental health is vital to having a fun-filled summer.
What is Boredom?
Boredom is a result of our brains not having something to focus on or a lack of stimulation. During school months, typically children focus on school assignments and other activities. While it is encouraged to have an active mind, our brains can get used to constant stimulation. When this stimulation stops, the brain alerts us with the thought “I’m bored!” During times of boredom, the brain is challenged to fix the problem. Depending on the age of the child, the solution may be positive and stimulate creativity and encourage problem solving. On the other hand, a child may look for easy solutions that may lead to poor choices, such as an increase in screen time and decrease in activity levels. Parents can help their child navigate boredom and be supportive during the summer months by making positive connections.
Positive Connections: Ideas for Managing Boredom
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Make a plan. Plan fun activities throughout the week. Make a weekly calendar and write down the planned activities. Ask your child for ideas which will include them in decision making and help support creativity and activity enjoyment.
- Schedule free time for your child during the day. This is an opportunity to encourage creativity, which stimulates problem solving. Both are good for children’s mental health.
- Maintain expectations. Summer offers more flexibility to schedules but be consistent with responsibilities, such as chores, throughout the summer. This encourages accountability and sets clear expectations.
This will help avoid power struggles and encourage positive relationships.
Summer Boredom Busters
Indoor Activities
- Game night - Board games, puzzles, charades, card games
- Movie night - Pick a day to enjoy a movie every week
- Family cooking - Prepare dinner or bake a dessert weekly
- Art projects - Coloring, painting, drawing, science experiments
- Physical activity - Dance off, scavenger hunts, hide and seek
Outdoor Activities
- Enjoy nature - Go to a park, plant a garden, stargaze
- Family games - Frisbee, hopscotch, relay race, obstacle course
- Family cooking - Plan a family picnic, make popsicles
- Art projects – Flower art, sidewalk chalk, rock painting
- Physical activity - Bicycle, play catch, jump rope, swim, walk the dog
Additional Resources
