Starting as early as age three, there’s pressure to schedule your kid for all the things - swimming lessons, dance, soccer, playdates, the list goes on.

We fear what will happen if we let kids get bored. Will they throw a fit? Start following you around? Demand screen-time? The answer is yes, they will do all the above. But that’s okay, because boredom is worth it. 

For kids, moments of boredom are absolute gold for their development. The sky is the limit when they have the space and time to follow their giddy imaginations. These moments of self-directed play strengthen creativity, but also build a sense of confidence, teaching them they can rely on themselves to create fun.

But our kids have definitely gotten used to us setting up activities, playdates, sensory tables, and art projects. So how do you break their addiction to having you as their 24/7 activity coordinator?

• Lead by example - it’s important that kids know that down time is a necessary part of self-care. So they need to see you sitting quietly entertaining yourself. Maybe reading a book, or doing a puzzle.
  
  
• Don’t jump in - when your kid huffs “I’m bored!”, don’t immediately problem solve for them. Encourage them to find something to do on their own. Try “Oh fun, you have so many cool things to play with. Let me know if you need help getting something out!”
  
  
• Be present, but not directing - one thing that’s worked for me is being nearby with a book when my daughter is playing on her own. We can still enjoy each other’s presence, and I can still keep an eye on her and respond when she wants to show me something. But I’m doing my own thing!

If you have babies or toddlers, even better! Click for three more tips to build this habit early.

The last couple years have not been easy for parents! But we got each other through it. This is your chance to treat the #momsquad that’s there for you, teaches you, supports you, listens to you vent, and just shows up for you. 

Here’s how to show them some love:

1. Nominate and invite two mom friends you love to sign up for Goji Parenting Weekly.
2. Tell us why your mom friends are great. Is it the playdates? The Whatsapp thread? Shout it from the rooftops.
3. Our randomly drawn winner, and their two mom friends, each get to choose a $50 Gift Card from Doordash or SpaFinder (to make your life a little easier).