I am of the opinion that there is a direct link between boredom and all sorts of troublesome behaviors when it comes to our kids! There, I’ve said it. I really do think that a bored child can get in all sorts of trouble—from picking arguments and fights, teasing, making messes, and getting into a moody funk. I don’t necessarily think that it is our job as parents to keep our children perpetually entertained—but it might help to just understand the correlation between boredom and moodiness (and other behaviors).
Of course, some of us have a higher tolerance for boredom than others. There are those amazing kids who are able to entertain themselves and who actually appreciate a little peace and quiet. And, then there are those that the minute the excitement dies down or things start to get a little slow—they go looking for something or somebody to stir up and get some action going. This can happen at home, at school, AND—I remember when I used to coach the youngster soccer teams; if I didn’t keep them busy and moving the whole time, there were those who would get instantly bored and start to get into trouble (and drag the rest of the team along with them!)
As kids get older, we CAN help them learn some self-awareness around the relation between boredom and troublesome behaviors. It helps if we share our observations with them: “It seems to me you are pestering the cat because you are bored and looking for something to do” or “Maybe you’re feeling crabby because you’re feeling bored and don’t know what to do with yourself.” Again, I don’t think it is up to us to provide nonstop entertainment or keep our kids busy—but we can help them learn how to identify boredom and restlessness and figure out productive ways to cope themselves.
Also: Arguing Means Giving Up Power
Helping Kids Solve Their Own Problems