Screens Off, Brains On: Why Boredom Might Be the Best Part of Summer

Because “I’m bored” is just the beginning of something amazing.

In the quiet moments, big thoughts begin to grow

Summer is here—which means sunshine, no homework, and... a whole lot of screen time if we’re not careful.

As a mom of two teens, I know how fast they can go from celebrating summer break to being fully absorbed in YouTube or gaming. And when the screens go off? Cue the dramatic “I’m booooored!”But here’s the thing most kids—and many adults—don’t realize:

Boredom is actually one of the best parts of summer.

Why Boredom Is Good for Kids

If you have younger kids at home, you know exactly what I’m talking about. As much as they love summer, they get bored very easily. And honestly, part of that comes from the world we live in. Life moves fast, everything is instant—and so are the rewards, especially when it comes to electronics.

That’s the reality our kids are growing up in.

When my kids used to complain about being bored, I felt like it was my job to fix it. To swoop in, come up with something fun, and make them happy again. But here’s the truth: it’s not my job to fix their boredom.

Yes, it can be tempting to offer a quick solution—hand them an activity or suggest something to do—but that’s not what they truly need.

What they need is the space to be bored and to deal with it.

Let them sit with the discomfort. Let them figure it out.

(Actually, I wrote a whole post about that idea recently—because it’s a lesson I keep coming back to!)

Boredom Is Where Creativity Begins

This is what boredom can look like—in the best way!

When kids say they’re bored, what they really mean is they’ve run out of easy options. And that’s when their brains start doing the real work:

- Revisiting that LEGO tower they never finished

- Inventing a new backyard game

- Doodling, daydreaming, making up dance routines

- Reflecting and processing emotions they didn’t know they had

Doing nothing is doing something. It opens the door to problem-solving, imagination, and growth.

So next time your child says, “I’m bored,” try responding with:

“That’s great. I can’t wait to see what you come up with.”

Create Space, Not Solutions

It’s totally okay to have a few simple activities ready—as long as you’re not the one constantly directing them. When my kids were little—especially when my oldest was around 4 and my youngest was 2—we had a special area in the house just for that. It was filled with crafts and toys they could easily grab and explore on their own. Honestly? I needed a break, too.

One of my favorite things we had in that space was a big plastic container (they could actually sit inside it!) filled with colorful rice we made together and a bunch of beach toys. They absolutely loved it. On rainy days when we couldn’t go outside, they’d spend hours scooping, pouring, and pretending in that bin. It was simple, sensory, and perfect.

Let the Quiet Moments Happen

Screens are tempting because they fill every second with entertainment. But they also crowd out the quiet space our kids need to think and feel.

This summer, allow those slow stretches of time. Don’t rush to fix boredom with a list of activities.

Instead, create opportunities for your kids to explore what happens when they unplug.

Need a nudge? Try a “boredom basket” filled with art supplies, old cardboard boxes, puzzles, or dress-up clothes. And model it yourself—step away from your own screen, sit outside with a book, or just be still.

Set Summer Rules Before You Need Them

Setting screen time rules for kids works best when it’s done together. A family digital agreement creates clarity, consistency, and calm

Now’s the time to establish a Family Digital Agreement—before summer routines get too loose. The secret?

Rules should be clear, simple, and non-negotiable.

Here’s why:

- When rules are flexible, kids learn to negotiate.

- When rules are set in the moment, they feel random or unfair.

- When rules are consistent, kids know what to expect—and arguments decrease.

Whether it’s:

- 1 hour of gaming a day

- No phones at the table

- Screens off by 8pm

Write it down. Post it. Stick to it.

Because clarity is kindness, and consistency builds trust.

Summer Freedom? Yes. But Chores Still Matter.

eaching responsibility at home starts with little moments—like chopping veggies side by side

Let them sleep in. Let them play. Let them be barefoot and sandy and loud.

But also let them help.

Summer is the perfect time to reinforce the idea that they are valuable members of the family—and with that comes contribution:

- Make your bed

- Walk the dog

- Set the table

- Help with dinner

These little tasks go a long way. They say, “You matter. Your help matters. You’re part of this team.”And truthfully? Kids feel better when they have structure and purpose—even during summer.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Fear the Boredom

In stillness, kids grow. Boredom gives their minds the space to wander, reflect, and imagine what’s possible

In a world that’s constantly pushing for more—more stimulation, more productivity, more screen time—let’s give our kids a gift this summer:

A chance to pause.

To sit.

To think.

To create.

To be a little bored—and discover what they’re capable of on the other side.

You’ve got this, and your kids do too.

Let’s Stay Connected!

If this post resonated with you, share it with a fellow parent.

And come say hi on Instagram @FamilyWellCoaching for more real-life parenting support, tips, and encouragement.