Many of the kids we work with experience challenges with imagination and creativity. This means that our kids get bored quickly, and are often unable to come up with ways to entertain themselves on their own. With so many activities restricted at the moment, and all of us spending more time at home, it is even more challenging to come up with ways to fill the afternoons and weekends.
Boredom presents itself in different ways
Our kids have experienced drastic changes to their weekly routines, which may have impacted on their sense of independence and control. As a consequence, in addition to troubles with boredom, creativity, and imagination, your child may also be struggling to regulate their emotions; boredom can quickly turn into episodes of frustration, anger, and even sadness.
Creating a to-do list
One small way to help your child regain a sense of control is to create a list of activities that they can do when they get bored. Posting a completed to-do list in an accessible place – like the front of the fridge – can serve as a visual reminder to you and your kids that there are many ways to combat boredom at home.
Writing a list of things to do together is also a great way to work on executive function skills, especially: planning, organising, task initiation, and self-regulation. Most importantly, it will help them beat the boredom blues.
We have created a printable to-do list template for you to use with your child. Download from the resources page.
