Summer is a time for relaxation, leisurely days by the pool, and a break from rigid schedules. It sounds like paradise, especially when we’re caught up in the hustle and bustle of the school year. Yet, just a week into summer, parents everywhere realize that wishing away the school year was a hasty decision.
Now, three weeks in, I’m scouring the internet for summer camps that might still have openings for three kids. The season quickly turns into a whirlwind of complaints, disputes over imaginary games, and way too much screen time. The most dreaded phrase? “Mom, I’m bored!”—which I hear approximately 85 times a day.
Excuse me while I chuckle. Last I checked, my dear children, you have a whole room filled with toys, endless books to dive into, a trampoline, a spacious backyard, and a fleet of bikes and scooters at your disposal. If you claim you’re bored, a little reality check is in order.
Do not come to me with your boredom complaints, or I will find a way to fill your time, and trust me, you won’t want that. If you dare to whine about being bored during a mere ten-minute car ride, I’ll remind you of my own road trip back in ’85 when screens were nonexistent, and we entertained ourselves with nothing but our imaginations.
I’m not here to be your personal entertainment director. My responsibilities extend beyond your amusement while I juggle cooking, cleaning, and paying bills. I already do so much for you, from washing your laundry to driving you to playdates, but sometimes, I need to focus on my own tasks. I love spending time with you, but there are chores that need my attention—like grocery shopping and cleaning the house (which, by the way, benefits you too).
So here’s the deal: when you utter “I’m bored,” you might find yourself engaged in some less-than-fun tasks, such as cleaning baseboards or scrubbing toilets. Expect some form of child labor because this house is no vacation resort where you lounge around and complain when the tablet dies.
If you’re really feeling bored, consider picking up the shoes and towels you leave strewn about or vacuuming the trail of snacks from the back door to the front. You could also write a letter to your grandparents, who spoil you endlessly, or sort through your toys to donate to kids who would never dream of saying “I’m bored” to their overwhelmed parents.
If boredom persists, I’ll happily teach you how to properly handle your laundry, including how to remove your underwear from the floor next to the hamper, and how to wipe down the refrigerator shelves. Still bored? Welcome to the world of dusting, organizing the spice cabinet, and tossing out expired food—all tasks that I don’t get to because I’m busy taking you to the library, the pool, and other fun outings.
While I’m all for providing enjoyable experiences, it’s crucial for you to understand that sometimes you’ll have to entertain yourselves while I tackle household chores or take a moment to enjoy the air conditioning. Other days, yes, I’ll help you set up that lemonade stand or build an epic fort.
Being bored is not a punishment; it’s a chance for you to learn creativity, pick up a book, and appreciate the privileges you have. So please, eliminate “I’m bored” from your vocabulary. Remember, this boredom is the best gift I can offer you—an opportunity to engage with your imagination while avoiding the chores I could assign you.
And if you forget this lesson, here’s a mop. Let’s get you acquainted with it.
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Summary
This article discusses the challenges parents face during summer when kids frequently claim they’re bored. It emphasizes the importance of self-entertainment and creativity, while also reminding children of their household responsibilities. Boredom, while often seen negatively, is presented as an opportunity for growth and imagination.
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