I'm BORED!
Summertime is more relaxed and carefree, a great time to build family unity along with treasured family memories. But by the end of July, the novelty of summertime CAN wear thin. At this point, many parents start to hear the irritating, whinny phrase, “I’m bored.” Here’s an idea that nipped that comment in the bud at my house.
When my children were younger and boredom would creep in, I squelched it with what was dubbed the “I’m Bored Chore Jar”. The jar sat on the kitchen counter filled with small slips of folded paper. On each slip a chore was listed. Sweeping the front walk, brushing the dog, pairing socks are a few examples. When one of the boys would complain about being bored, he was directed to the jar. If my children couldn’t find something to do, I was more than happy to help them! Needless to say, complaints of boredom became less frequent.
Being able to occupy one’s time is a necessary life skill. Moms and dads, you are not called to be the cruise director for your children, filling every moment of time with activities. Kids need to be able to self-start and find constructive ways to fill free time on their own. But when they can’t figure out what to do, the “I’m Bored Chore Jar” is sure to help them come up with a few ideas on their own!
What strategies do you use to battle boredom at your house?
© 2012 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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Photo credit: B. Danielson
Becky, that’s genius!! I’m going to suggest that to my sisters for their kiddos. Even though I don’t have children, I might even start one of those for myself. Not necessarily for when I’m bored, but when I have an hour of time when I need to take a break and do something different on the weekends. Thanks for your great suggestion!
Hi Becky, Thanks for this. It reminds me of the exact same approach I used when I was raising our four children (now adult). And it worked well in our family too 🙂 I love the way you have expressed it “Moms and dads, you are not called to be the cruise director for your children, filling every moment of time with activities. Kids need to be able to self-start and find constructive ways to fill free time on their own.” May the Lord bless you and your family.